The Prime Minister of Senegal, Ousmane Sonko, declared on Friday before lawmakers that the newly enacted legislation targeting acts deemed “against nature” will be enforced with “unwavering firmness.” The government chief also dismissed mounting international criticism of the recently adopted law.
Addressing deputies during a parliamentary question session, Sonko underscored the urgent need for strict, impartial enforcement of the revised provisions. He emphasized that once legislation is passed and signed, every citizen—regardless of prior opposition—must comply with its stipulations.
The controversial law, signed into force by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, amends Article 319 of the Senegalese Penal Code (originally enacted in 1965). The reform expands criminal liability to include not only the commission of such acts but also their public advocacy and financial support. Violators now face imprisonment ranging from five to ten years and fines between two and ten million West African CFA francs.
In the face of criticism from Western governments, including France, Sonko defended Senegal’s legislative sovereignty. He asserted that Senegalese society reserves the right to define its moral and social boundaries, stating plainly that the nation accepts no external guidance on this matter.
The Prime Minister framed the reform as a vital public health and societal protection measure, explicitly citing the ongoing fight against HIV transmission as a key motivation. He further confirmed that no moratorium on implementation will be considered, signaling the government’s full commitment to applying the law without exception.