Senegal prime minister condemns western pressure over anti-lgbtq+ law

The Prime Minister of Senegal, Ousmane Sonko, has vehemently defended the nation’s strengthened penalties for same-sex relations, dismissing international criticism as an attempt by the West to impose its values on Africa.

During a parliamentary address, Sonko framed the debate not as one of human rights, but as a cultural and moral battle, declaring that Western powers seek to normalize homosexuality in Africa, a continent he described as overwhelmingly opposed to such practices.

The controversial legislation, which increases punishments for LGBTQ+ individuals, has drawn sharp condemnation from human rights groups and Western governments. However, Sonko made it clear that Senegal will not yield to external pressure, emphasizing that the law aligns with the country’s social and religious values.

“We will not bow to the tyranny of those who wish to reshape our society in their image,” he stated, asserting that Africa must resist what he called an ideological imposition from the West.