During a heated session at the National Assembly this past Friday, May 22, Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko stood firm in defense of his government’s controversial stance on LGBTQ+ rights, addressing lawmakers for the fifth time since his administration took office.
When confronted about the newly enacted law that imposes stricter prison sentences for same-sex relations—following over a hundred arrests in just three months and a public appeal from African scholars calling for a delay—Sonko made it clear that the legislation would not be suspended. Instead, he emphasized his commitment to eradicating what he described as the « spread of this phenomenon, » demanding that the judiciary apply the law with « absolute impartiality and precision. » His remarks carried an unmistakable warning: no exceptions will be made, even for high-profile figures, as evidenced by recent detentions of individuals linked to his inner circle.
As international backlash mounted, Sonko pushed back aggressively against foreign criticism, singling out Paris in particular. « We’ve witnessed excessive posturing from certain countries, especially in France
In a defiant tone, he accused Western nations of attempting to impose LGBTQ+ acceptance through media dominance, declaring, « If they choose this path, that is their concern—but we will not accept lessons from them, not now, not ever. » His remarks hinted at even harsher measures ahead, as he left the door open for legislative reinforcements, asserting, « If the law requires tightening, it will be tightened. »