Burkina Faso’s Transitional Legislative Assembly (ALT) has adopted a new Code of Persons and Family that criminalises homosexual practices for the first time in the country’s history.
The law, passed on September 1, introduces penalties of two to five years in prison and fines for same-sex relations and related acts.
“The major innovation of this new Code is the prohibition of homosexual practices and related behavior, as well as the penalties provided for in this regard,” Justice Minister Edasso Rodrigue Bayala told lawmakers.
He added that foreign nationals convicted of such offenses would be “simply and immediately expelled” from the country in the event of repeat violations.
Until now, Burkina Faso had no legal provisions criminalising homosexuality, according to the justice minister.
HO/ac/sf/lb/as/APA