On Friday, May 22, Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko forcefully defended his government’s stance before lawmakers during the fifth round of parliamentary question-and-answer sessions since the PASTEF took office.
Responding to inquiries about the recently enacted legislation that increases prison sentences for same-sex relationships—after over a hundred individuals were detained within three months and African intellectuals issued a public plea for a moratorium on May 18—Sonko made it clear the law would not be suspended.
The Prime Minister framed the issue as a matter of public morality, vowing to eradicate what he described as the “widespread scourge” of homosexuality. He called for a “full, impartial, and rigorous” enforcement of the law, stressing that no one, including high-profile figures, would be exempt from prosecution. His remarks followed the arrests of several individuals close to his administration.
In the face of mounting international criticism, Sonko pushed back against Western condemnation, singling out Paris. He dismissed concerns as mere “theatrical displays” from foreign capitals, particularly France, and framed the debate as an attempt by the West to impose its values on Africa through media control.
With unwavering resolve, he declared, “If they have chosen these practices, that is their concern—but we certainly will not take lessons from them, absolutely not.” He went further, warning that if the law requires further tightening, it would be done without hesitation.
