Gambiaj.com – (DAKAR) – Senegal’s National Assembly received a controversial proposal on Monday, June 24, as MP Cheikh Abdou Bara Dolly Mbacké tabled a bill aimed at criminalizing homosexuality and other acts deemed “against nature.” The bill seeks to amend paragraph 3 of Article 319 of Law No. 65-60 of July 21, 1965, in the Penal Code.

Under the proposed changes, individuals found guilty of acts against nature, including homosexuality, could face 10 to 15 years in prison and fines ranging from 1,000,000 FCFA to 5,000,000 FCFA. The bill explicitly removes the possibility of mitigating circumstances for these offenses.

In a video interview with Igfm, MP Mbacké, who represents Touba, elaborated on his motivations and the scope of the proposed legislation. He stated that the bill aims to classify lesbianism, homosexuality, bisexuality, transsexuality, zoophilia, necrophilia, and other similar practices as unnatural acts. “Any commission of these offenses must be punished with the same penalty,” he emphasized.

Additionally, the bill proposes penalties for the promotion or apology of such offenses, suggesting a sentence of 3 to 5 years imprisonment and fines between 500,000 FCFA and 5,000,000 FCFA.

The proposal has sparked a heated debate within Senegal, a country where homosexuality is already illegal but seldom enforced to such an extent. Human rights organizations have voiced concerns over the bill, arguing that it could lead to increased persecution and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals and others deemed to be engaging in “unnatural acts.”

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it is likely to continue to generate significant discussion and controversy both within Senegal and internationally.