Ousmane Sonko condemns western pressure over homosexuality

The Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko forcefully criticized what he termed as the «tyranny of the West» during a parliamentary address on Friday, May 21. He accused certain western nations of attempting to impose their cultural values globally, stating, «There are eight billion people in the world, yet a small group called the West, because of its economic and media dominance, seeks to dictate its norms to the rest of humanity.»

New law increases penalties for homosexuality

Senegal enacted a controversial law in early March, significantly strengthening penalties for same-sex relations. The legislation raises prison sentences from five years to a decade. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye signed the law into effect on March 31. Sonko reiterated during his speech that the government would not entertain any proposals for a moratorium or suspension of this legislation.

Sensitive issue in a predominantly Muslim nation

In Senegal, a country where Islam plays a central role in society, discussions surrounding homosexuality remain highly sensitive across political, religious, and social spheres. While the new law has drawn criticism from human rights organizations, its supporters argue it reflects the nation’s cultural and religious values. The Senegalese government maintains that the legislation is a sovereign decision, resisting external pressures.