Senegal’s parliament has approved a new law doubling to 10 years the maximum prison term for sexual acts by same-sex couples as well as criminalising the promotion of homosexuality.

A total of 135 Members of Parliament voted in favour of the law as they now await the president’s signature to make it binding.

The legislation, which was a campaign promise of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, was sent to parliament after a wave of arrests over alleged same-sex relationships, already banned under Senegalese law.

Furthermore, the government spokesman dismissed international criticism of the bill, arguing that the move reflected the views of Senegalese people.

However, rights groups warn the move could worsen discrimination and violence against sexual minorities.

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