Senegal’s Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, has delivered a firm message regarding the country’s legislative stance on same-sex relations. Speaking before the National Assembly, the head of government categorically dismissed any external pressure to modify the nation’s legal framework, which recently saw an increase in criminal penalties for homosexual acts.
A rejection of external pressure
During his address to the deputies, Ousmane Sonko characterized the promotion of LGBTQ+ rights by international actors as a form of “Western tyranny” aimed at imposing specific social values on the rest of the world. He made it clear that the West African nation would not entertain any calls for a moratorium or a suspension of its current laws.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the government remains committed to upholding the existing statutes in this predominantly Muslim society. By refusing to compromise on the enforcement of these stricter penalties, Sonko signaled that Senegal will prioritize its own cultural and religious values over international diplomatic demands regarding social legislation.
