The Senegalese government has intensified its crackdown on homosexuality, resulting in the arrest of approximately twenty people, including notable figures from media and culture.
In Senegal, the government’s crackdown on homosexuality has significantly intensified, particularly over the past two weeks. Authorities have arrested around 22 individuals, including well-known media personalities and cultural figures, as part of a broader strategy to dismantle perceived ‘networks’ of LGBTQ individuals. This crackdown appears to be amplified by social media visibility, with some arrests being showcased online. The recent arrest of a TikToker, Saliou Mbaye, known as Zale, while attempting to flee the country at the Senegal-Gambia border points to the high stakes involved for individuals facing persecution in Senegal.
Additionally, the Senegalese government is not only increasing arrests but is also actively pursuing legislative measures to further strengthen penal codes against homosexuality. During a recent cabinet meeting, a proposed law was discussed that could impose even stricter penalties, reflecting a troubling trend towards heightened repression in a country already known for its conservative stance on LGBTQ rights. This legal approach raises significant concerns regarding human rights and personal freedoms in Senegal, as it may instigate further fear and oppression among the LGBTQ community.
The escalating situation has drawn concern from various human rights organizations and advocates, who are calling for international scrutiny and intervention. The socio-political landscape in Senegal, heavily influenced by conservative Islamic values, complicates the journey toward acceptance and rights for LGBTQ individuals in the region. With groups such as the Islamic association Jamraa threatening to ramp up anti-LGBTQ activities, the immediate future for advocates and those belonging to the LGBTQ community in Senegal remains uncertain and increasingly perilous.
