AssetID: 55505576
Headline: UNCAPTIONED: Senegal PM Proposes Tougher Anti-LGBT Law with Doubling of Prison Terms
Caption: Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has introduced a bill that could double the maximum prison sentence for same-sex relations, from five to ten years. The proposed law, which was sent to parliament this week, targets "acts against nature" and has sparked significant controversy. The bill comes after a wave of arrests for alleged same-sex relationships, which are already illegal under Senegalese law. Sonko emphasized that the proposed law would apply the maximum penalty in cases involving minors. The legislation also proposes prison terms of three to seven years for anyone promoting same-sex relationships. Additionally, it suggests separate punishment for those who falsely accuse others of homosexuality. The bill introduces fines of up to 10 million CFA francs (around $18,000) for those convicted. Rights advocates have strongly criticized the bill, accusing it of violating basic human rights and freedoms. Debate over LGBT rights in Senegal has long been contentious, with religious groups calling for stricter penalties. A vote in parliament, controlled by Sonko's party, is pending, but the exact date has yet to be set. Instructions: THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT
Keywords: Current Affairs & Politics,Senegal,Ousmane Sonko,anti-LGBT law,same-sex relations,prison sentence,human rights,LGBT rights,religious opposition,fines,criminalisation,parliament,Pastef party,protests,arrests,Africa,homosexuality law,anti-LGBT laws,Senegal politics,African countries,same-sex legislation,political debate,social laws,international criticism,civil rights
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