Malawi Gay Couple Pardoned
June 6, 2010
A gay couple who were jailed in Malawi have been pardoned by President Bingu wa Mutharika.
Steven Monjeza, 26, and his partner Tiwonge Chimbalanga, 20, were arrested on Dec. 28 - two days after holding a public engagement ceremony in front of 500 onlookers. They were charged with gross indecency and performing unnatural acts.
Homosexuality is illegal in at least 37 countries in Africa, including Malawi.
The case has drawn international condemnation and sparked a debate on human rights in this conservative southern African country. The nation, one of the poorest in Africa, is heavily dependent on foreign aid, and several donors suggested they might have to reconsider their generosity.
Pop icon and gay activist Madonna called upon her fans to help with her very vocal opposition of the arrest by way of petition addressing the government in Malawi, the country where she adopted two children.
President Bingu wa Mutharika announced last Saturday during a press conference that "these boys committed a crime against our culture, our religion and our laws... However, as the head of state I hereby pardon them and therefore ask for their immediate release with no conditions."
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