Authorities in Senegal have arrested several individuals involved in organizing a recent Sabari Goor-Djiguene event, after videos from the gathering went viral and sparked widespread public outrage.
The footage shows male dancers performing sexually suggestive moves on each other, drawing visible discomfort from some onlookers in the crowd. The incident quickly spread on social media, prompting an outpouring of criticism from many Senegalese citizens. Numerous commenters demanaded the arrest of the event’s organizers, warning that such displays could contribute to the normalization of homosexuality in the country.
However, others argued that the backlash was exaggerated. According to these voices, the performers were heterosexual men engaging in light-hearted entertainment and not promoting any particular lifestyle.
The controversy has reignited ongoing debates about LGBTQ+ rights in Senegal, a predominantly Muslim nation where same-sex relations are criminalized.
Since the election of President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye, some Islamic groups have renewed calls for a total ban on homosexuality.
A full legal ban, however, could pose diplomatic and economic challenges for the new administration. Observers warn that such a move may lead to sanctions from international partners, including the European Union and the United States, potentially jeopardizing critical development projects.