Burkina Faso’s transitional parliament has passed a controversial law criminalizing conduct deemed to promote LGBTQ practices, introducing jail terms, fines, and deportation for offenders.
The legislation, passed unanimously by the 71-member transitional parliament on Monday, forms part of amendments to the country’s Persons and Family Code. Justice Minister Edasso Rodrigue Bayala confirmed the details on state television, saying: “The law provides for a prison sentence ranging from two to five years and a fine.”
He explained that anyone found guilty of engaging in same-sex practices will face prosecution. “A person who (engages in) homosexual practices … will appear before a judge and, in the event of a repeat offence, be deported if you are not a Burkinabe national,” Bayala stated.
The new law is awaiting the signature of junta leader Captain Ibrahim Traoré before it comes into full effect. Once signed, it will make Burkina Faso the latest in a growing list of African countries tightening restrictions on LGBTQ activities. Similar laws exist in Senegal, Uganda, and Malawi, while nations such as South Africa, Botswana, and Angola have chosen a different path by decriminalizing same-sex relations or offering protective measures.
Officials in Ouagadougou framed the move as an effort to “modernize family law and clarify nationality rules” rather than simply a crackdown. However, rights groups are expected to challenge its provisions, particularly restrictions on nationality appeals and protections for stateless individuals.
During his televised remarks, Justice Minister Bayala went further, describing homosexuality as “bizarre behavior.” He argued that the legislation recognizes “marriage and family values.”
Under the law, those convicted face prison sentences of at least two years, with a maximum penalty of five years behind bars. Repeat offenders who are foreign nationals will also be expelled from Burkina Faso.
The decision underscores the military-led government’s increasingly hardline approach. Since seizing power in 2022, the junta has tightened control over dissent as it continues to battle worsening Islamist insurgencies across the country.
Source: ameyawdebrah.com/
