The Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has firmly rejected any possibility of a moratorium on the enforcement of laws criminalizing homosexuality in the country. Speaking to reporters in Dakar, he emphasized his commitment to eliminating what he described as the « proliferation » of same-sex relations and vowed that judicial authorities would pursue cases to their conclusion.

Sonko’s remarks come amid a recent crackdown, with over a hundred individuals arrested in the past three months under accusations of « unnatural acts » and, in some cases, deliberate transmission of HIV. The arrests have included several figures close to the Prime Minister, sparking widespread debate.

No lessons from the West

« We have no lessons to receive » on this matter, Sonko declared, accusing Western nations of attempting to impose their values through what he called « media manipulation ». He framed the push for decriminalization as a form of « tyranny » aimed at reshaping Senegalese society.

The Prime Minister also addressed the country’s mounting public debt, which now stands at 119% of GDP. While acknowledging the « challenging economic situation », Sonko defended his administration’s recovery plan, highlighting improved tax collection as a key financial boost.

Meanwhile, Finance Minister Cheikh Diba sought to reassure citizens, stating that debt management measures are « being actively addressed ». He confirmed that negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) would resume the week of June 8, with the goal of finalizing a new program framework by June 30. Discussions had stalled since October 2025 due to disagreements over whether Senegal’s debt required restructuring.