A climate of fear has descended upon Senegal following the recent arrest of twelve men accused of “acts against nature,” a phrase used to describe same-sex relations, according to reports. The arrests underscore a growing crackdown on LGBTQ+ individuals in the West African nation.
Among those detained are Pape Cheikh Diallo, a popular radio and television host, and Djiby Dramé, a fusion singer, both well-known figures in Senegal. They were presented to a prosecutor on Monday and are currently being held at Rebeuss prison in the capital, Dakar.
The detainees face potential prison sentences ranging from one to five years, but are also accused of additional charges including association of criminals, money laundering, intentional transmission of HIV/AIDS, and endangering the lives of others.
Homosexuality Remains a Crime
Homosexuality is criminalized under Article 319 of Senegal’s penal code, which carries penalties of imprisonment. Despite ongoing debate within the public sphere and from human rights organizations, the law remains in effect, and prosecutions are proceeding within the existing legal framework.
Societal attitudes toward homosexuality in Senegal are largely conservative, with widespread discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community.
Ousmane Sonko, the current Prime Minister, previously pledged to intensify the repression of homosexuality even as in the opposition. In 2022, he even used opposition to LGBTQ+ rights as a key campaign point during legislative elections.
Recent searches of the homes of those accused were conducted on February 10, in their presence. According to Seneweb, the only items discovered during the searches were condoms at one of the residences.
A Question of Tolerance
While most Senegalese media outlets are reporting the facts of the case, Seneplus questioned whether tolerance is disappearing in Senegal. “You’ll see no more homosexuals in the West than on the African continent,” the site argued, countering the belief that homosexuality is an imported deviation. “There is only the will to live in peace and to flourish through a sexuality that is not chosen but imposed by the nature of the one who lives it.”
The article continued, stating that “No religion, no group can dictate to its members the rejection of a part of the population. Lynching a human being because he is, or worse, ‘would be’ homosexual is unworthy of a country, a civilization!”
Growing Homophobia
Reports from Le Monde Afrique indicate that since the arrests, television and radio programs have largely echoed a pervasive homophobia. “I have a feeling of disgust… Media figures who are supposed to be moral references are at the forefront of this diabolical activity,” said Mame Matar Gueye, president of the Jamra association, which actively campaigns against LGBTQ+ rights, on the Walf channel.
Mass Mboup, leader of the And Samm Jikko Yi movement, dedicated to criminalizing homosexuality, used the case to call for a tightening of legislation, according to Le Monde Afrique.
