Sonko accuses western powers of cultural imperialism

During a parliamentary session on Friday, Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko criticized what he described as a « western tyranny » over global discussions on homosexuality. Speaking to lawmakers, he argued that a small group of western nations, leveraging economic and media dominance, seeks to impose its values on the rest of the world. « With eight billion people on Earth, a handful of western nations—driven by wealth and control over global narratives—attempt to dictate moral standards to the entire planet », Sonko stated.

New legislation increases penalties for same-sex relations

Senegal’s parliament approved a controversial law in early March that significantly increases penalties for homosexuality. Previously punishable by up to five years in prison, the revised legislation now imposes sentences of up to a decade. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye signed the bill into law on March 31. Sonko reiterated that the government has no intention of suspending or delaying its implementation, dismissing external pressure to reconsider the measure.

A deeply divisive issue in Senegal

In this predominantly Muslim West African nation, discussions surrounding homosexuality remain highly contentious across political, religious, and social spheres. While human rights organizations have condemned the new law, supporters argue it aligns with Senegal’s cultural and religious values. The government maintains that the legislation reflects national sovereignty in the face of international interference.