France, Feb. 20 -- The draft law was adopted by the Council of Ministers on Wednesday and introduces harsher penalties for so-called "unnatural acts" while broadening existing legislation. It is not yet in force and must still be approved by parliament before becoming law.

The measure fulfils an election pledge by the ruling Pastef party, led by Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, which had promised to reinforce existing restrictions.

Backed by the government, the bill proposes stricter sanctions under Article 319 of Senegal's Penal Code. Prison sentences for those found guilty of acts deemed "unnatural" could be doubled to up to 10 years, while fines may rise to 10 million CFA francs, compared with 1.5 million at present.

Senegalese PM prom...