Senegal’s parliament has passed a new law increasing the maximum prison sentence for same-sex relations to 10 years. The legislation was approved by an overwhelming majority in the National Assembly, with 135 lawmakers voting in favour, none against and three abstaining.
The new law modifies the country’s penal code, raising the penalty from the previous one to five years in prison to a new range of five to ten years. It also increases the financial penalties that can be imposed on those convicted, with fines rising to as much as 10 million CFA francs.
In addition to criminalising same-sex relations, the legislation introduces penalties for individuals accused of promoting or advocating for such relationships. People found guilty of promoting homosexuality could face prison sentences ranging from three to seven years under the new rules.
The bill was introduced as part of campaign promises made by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, who had pledged to strengthen existing laws on the issue. The legislation still requires the president’s signature before it formally becomes law.
Senegal has long criminalised same-sex relations under its penal code, where such acts were previously punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine. The new law significantly increases those penalties and places the country among several African nations that have recently tightened laws targeting same-sex relationships.
The move has drawn strong reactions from human rights groups, who say the law could worsen discrimination and fear among sexual minorities. Supporters of the legislation, however, say it reflects cultural and religious values widely held in the country.
