Lawmakers Double Prison Sentence for Same-Sex Relations from 5 to 10 Years (VIDEO)

Lawmakers in Senegal have approved new legislation that significantly increases the criminal penalties for same-sex relations, doubling the maximum prison sentence from five years to ten years.

The decision was passed by the National Assembly of Senegal, the country’s legislative body, as part of broader amendments to existing morality and public conduct laws.

What the New Law Says

Under the revised legislation, individuals found guilty of engaging in same-sex relations could now face:

• Up to 10 years in prison

• Higher financial penalties compared to the previous law

• Additional sanctions for offenses considered related to same-sex conduct or promotion

Previously, Senegal’s criminal code already prohibited same-sex relations with a maximum prison sentence of five years. The new amendment effectively doubles the maximum jail term while also strengthening fines associated with related offenses.

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Lawmakers Say the Change Reflects Cultural Values

Supporters of the legislation argue that the amendment reflects the social, religious, and cultural values widely held in Senegal.

Several lawmakers said the move was intended to reinforce the country’s existing laws and discourage behaviors that many communities consider unacceptable under Senegalese legal and moral frameworks.

According to supporters, the new penalties aim to clarify and strengthen enforcement of the law rather than introduce entirely new restrictions.

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Reaction from Rights Groups

The decision has already generated debate among international observers and human rights organizations.

Some rights groups have criticized the amendment, arguing that stricter penalties could increase discrimination and legal risks for individuals accused under the law.

Others have called for broader discussions about human rights protections and legal reforms across the region.

Senegal’s Existing Legal Framework

Same-sex relations have been illegal in Senegal for decades under provisions in the country’s criminal code.

The law historically allowed courts to impose:

• One to five years imprisonment

• Financial fines for individuals convicted under the statute

With the latest amendment, the maximum sentence has now been extended to ten years, making the law significantly stricter.

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Across Africa, legal approaches to same-sex relations vary widely. Some countries maintain strict prohibitions, while others have gradually moved toward legal reforms.

Senegal’s decision places it among the nations that continue to enforce strong legal penalties under criminal law.

The new law passed by Senegal’s parliament marks a major shift in the country’s legal penalties regarding same-sex relations, doubling the maximum prison term and increasing financial sanctions.

As the policy takes effect, discussions around legal enforcement, cultural values, and human rights are expected to continue both within Senegal and internationally.

WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW:

Senegal parliament doubles penalty for same-sëx relations from five years to TEN, and increases fines for related offenses.

pic.twitter.com/ytuckn8BSh

— YabaLeftOnline (@yabaleftonline) March 13, 2026