Summary
Senegal's Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, introduced a proposed law that increases the punishment for same-sex relationships. The new legislation could raise the maximum prison term to 10 years. The proposal comes amid recent arrests and social tension over LGBT rights in the country.
Key Facts
- Senegal's Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, proposed a law to increase prison terms for same-sex relations.
- The proposed maximum penalty could be up to 10 years in prison, up from the current five years.
- The legislation was sent to parliament after the cabinet approved it.
- The law describes same-sex conduct as an "act against nature."
- The bill includes penalties for promoting same-sex relations, with sentences between three to seven years.
- Recent arrests under existing anti-LGBT laws include 12 men, among them public figures.
- Religious groups in Senegal have pushed for harsher laws against LGBT activities.
- Fines up to 10 million CFA (approximately $18,000) could be imposed under the new law.
