A protest is to be held this Saturday 29 May in solidarity with Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, the gay couple recently sentenced to 14 years in prison with hard labour in Malawi.
There have been calls for the UK to cease giving aid to Malawi until the couple are released. However, international development minister Alan Duncan MP, writing exclusively for PinkNews.co.uk, stated: "We must be wary of calls to use aid money as a political weapon." He added: "Our aid programme is worth almost £80 million this year and is aimed directly at helping those most in need. We cannot make them victims along with Mr Chimbalanga and Mr Monjeza."
The protest begins at 1pm outside the Malawi High Commission, 70 Winnington Raod, London N2 0TX.
Subscribe To
Posts
All Comments
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Demonstration!
A protest is to be held this Saturday 29 May in solidarity with Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, the gay couple recently sentenced to 14 years in prison with hard labour in Malawi.
There have been calls for the UK to cease giving aid to Malawi until the couple are released. However, international development minister Alan Duncan MP, writing exclusively for PinkNews.co.uk, stated: "We must be wary of calls to use aid money as a political weapon." He added: "Our aid programme is worth almost £80 million this year and is aimed directly at helping those most in need. We cannot make them victims along with Mr Chimbalanga and Mr Monjeza."
The protest begins at 1pm outside the Malawi High Commission, 70 Winnington Raod, London N2 0TX.
There have been calls for the UK to cease giving aid to Malawi until the couple are released. However, international development minister Alan Duncan MP, writing exclusively for PinkNews.co.uk, stated: "We must be wary of calls to use aid money as a political weapon." He added: "Our aid programme is worth almost £80 million this year and is aimed directly at helping those most in need. We cannot make them victims along with Mr Chimbalanga and Mr Monjeza."
The protest begins at 1pm outside the Malawi High Commission, 70 Winnington Raod, London N2 0TX.
Demonstration!
A protest is to be held this Saturday 29 May in solidarity with Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, the gay couple recently sentenced to 14 years in prison with hard labour in Malawi.
There have been calls for the UK to cease giving aid to Malawi until the couple are released. However, international development minister Alan Duncan MP, writing exclusively for PinkNews.co.uk, stated: "We must be wary of calls to use aid money as a political weapon." He added: "Our aid programme is worth almost £80 million this year and is aimed directly at helping those most in need. We cannot make them victims along with Mr Chimbalanga and Mr Monjeza."
The protest begins at 1pm outside the Malawi High Commission, 70 Winnington Raod, London N2 0TX.
There have been calls for the UK to cease giving aid to Malawi until the couple are released. However, international development minister Alan Duncan MP, writing exclusively for PinkNews.co.uk, stated: "We must be wary of calls to use aid money as a political weapon." He added: "Our aid programme is worth almost £80 million this year and is aimed directly at helping those most in need. We cannot make them victims along with Mr Chimbalanga and Mr Monjeza."
The protest begins at 1pm outside the Malawi High Commission, 70 Winnington Raod, London N2 0TX.
Madonna condemns Malawi for jailing gay men
Madonna has said she is "shocked" at Malawi for sentencing a gay couple to 14 years in jail.
Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga were handed the harsh sentence yesterday for holding a traditional marriage ceremony in December.
Madonna, who is the adoptive mother of two Malawian children and possibly the country's most famous benefactor, called on the country to challenge the court's decision.
She said in a statement to Access Hollywood: "I am shocked and saddened by the decision made today by the Malawian court, which sentenced two innocent men to prison.
"As a matter of principle, I believe in equal rights for all people, no matter what their gender, race, colour, religion, or sexual orientation.
"Today, Malawi took a giant step backward. The world is filled with pain and suffering; therefore, we must support our basic human right to love and be loved.
"I call upon the progressive men and women of Malawi – and around the world – to challenge this decision in the name of human dignity and equal rights for all."
It is the first time the singer has spoken publicly about the couple's plight. They have been in custody since December and denied the charges of gross indecency and unnatural acts.
Madonna's children Mercy, five, and David, four, were born in Malawi. Both adoptions were criticised and it was claimed she had circumvented laws on foreigners adopting children from the country.
Mr Monjeza and Mr Tiwonge's sentence has been criticised around the world.
Yesterday, international development minister Alan Duncan said "urgent representations" were being made to the country, while US White House press secretary Robert Gibbs said President Barack Obama "strongly condemns" the sentence.
Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga were handed the harsh sentence yesterday for holding a traditional marriage ceremony in December.
Madonna, who is the adoptive mother of two Malawian children and possibly the country's most famous benefactor, called on the country to challenge the court's decision.
She said in a statement to Access Hollywood: "I am shocked and saddened by the decision made today by the Malawian court, which sentenced two innocent men to prison.
"As a matter of principle, I believe in equal rights for all people, no matter what their gender, race, colour, religion, or sexual orientation.
"Today, Malawi took a giant step backward. The world is filled with pain and suffering; therefore, we must support our basic human right to love and be loved.
"I call upon the progressive men and women of Malawi – and around the world – to challenge this decision in the name of human dignity and equal rights for all."
It is the first time the singer has spoken publicly about the couple's plight. They have been in custody since December and denied the charges of gross indecency and unnatural acts.
Madonna's children Mercy, five, and David, four, were born in Malawi. Both adoptions were criticised and it was claimed she had circumvented laws on foreigners adopting children from the country.
Mr Monjeza and Mr Tiwonge's sentence has been criticised around the world.
Yesterday, international development minister Alan Duncan said "urgent representations" were being made to the country, while US White House press secretary Robert Gibbs said President Barack Obama "strongly condemns" the sentence.
Angel of doom? Exclusive: International development minister Alan Duncan promises 'urgent representations' to Malawi
International development minister Alan Duncan has warned against cutting aid money to Malawi but says the government will make "urgent representations" to the county over the 14-year jail term handed to two gay men.
Writing for PinkNews.co.uk, Mr Duncan, who was the first Tory MP to come out, said the conviction of Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza was "shocking and disturbing" and violated Malawi's own laws on human rights.
The couple were jailed for 14 years with hard labour today, almost five months after they were arrested for holding a traditional wedding ceremony.
Mr Duncan said using aid money as a "political weapon" would only create more victims in one of the poorest countries in the world.
He wrote: "Around 40 per cent of [Malawi's] people live on less than 34 pence a day. They face a challenge just to survive and we have a moral obligation to help them in their daily battle against hunger, disease and despair.
"Our aid programme is worth almost £80 million this year and it is aimed directly at helping those most in need.
"We cannot make them victims along with Mr Chimbalanga and Mr Monjeza."
Instead, he said, the British government and its international partners would make "urgent representations" to the Malawian government to review its laws on homosexuality.
Exact details of the contact between Britain and Malawi have not been released, but it is understood that the British ambassador to the country and the Department for International Development head of office in Malawi have spoken to Malawian officials today.
The nature of such talks is likely to be discreet and informal, due to the political sensitivity around colonialism.
But Malawi is expected to come under international pressure for the sentence and PinkNews.co.uk understands it will be raised in future budget support discussions.
Mr Monjeza and Mr Chimbalanga pleaded not guilty to offences of unnatural acts and gross indecency but were convicted earlier this week.
After being arrested in December, their case received worldwide media attention. Today, they were handed the maximum sentence for gay sex – 14 years with hard labour. In sentencing, they would told the harsh punishment would act as a deterrent to others.
Gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell, who has been raising awareness of their plight, described the 14-year sentence as "brutal", while Amnesty International called it "an outrage".
The men's lawyers confirmed they would appeal the sentence.
Writing for PinkNews.co.uk, Mr Duncan, who was the first Tory MP to come out, said the conviction of Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza was "shocking and disturbing" and violated Malawi's own laws on human rights.
The couple were jailed for 14 years with hard labour today, almost five months after they were arrested for holding a traditional wedding ceremony.
Mr Duncan said using aid money as a "political weapon" would only create more victims in one of the poorest countries in the world.
He wrote: "Around 40 per cent of [Malawi's] people live on less than 34 pence a day. They face a challenge just to survive and we have a moral obligation to help them in their daily battle against hunger, disease and despair.
"Our aid programme is worth almost £80 million this year and it is aimed directly at helping those most in need.
"We cannot make them victims along with Mr Chimbalanga and Mr Monjeza."
Instead, he said, the British government and its international partners would make "urgent representations" to the Malawian government to review its laws on homosexuality.
Exact details of the contact between Britain and Malawi have not been released, but it is understood that the British ambassador to the country and the Department for International Development head of office in Malawi have spoken to Malawian officials today.
The nature of such talks is likely to be discreet and informal, due to the political sensitivity around colonialism.
But Malawi is expected to come under international pressure for the sentence and PinkNews.co.uk understands it will be raised in future budget support discussions.
Mr Monjeza and Mr Chimbalanga pleaded not guilty to offences of unnatural acts and gross indecency but were convicted earlier this week.
After being arrested in December, their case received worldwide media attention. Today, they were handed the maximum sentence for gay sex – 14 years with hard labour. In sentencing, they would told the harsh punishment would act as a deterrent to others.
Gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell, who has been raising awareness of their plight, described the 14-year sentence as "brutal", while Amnesty International called it "an outrage".
The men's lawyers confirmed they would appeal the sentence.
Disappointed United Kingdom government ministers
Three government ministers have said the UK will "continue to press" the African country of Malawi on LGBT rights after it sentenced a couple to 14 years in jail for being gay.
The couple, Steven Monjeza, 26, and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, 20, were told by a judge today they would also serve hard labour as a warning to other gay people after being convicted of having anal sex.
A joint statement from junior Foreign Office ministers Henry Bellingham and Stephen O'Brien and junior equality minister Lynne Featherstone said they were "deeply dismayed" by the convictions and by reports the pair had suffered mistreatment in police custody.
It said: "Malawi has made significant progress on human rights in recent years. The government has signed up to international human rights treaties and Malawi's constitution protects the rights of all its citizens. Infringement of these rights is intolerable. The conviction and sentencing to the maximum 14 years' imprisonment of Mr Chimbalanga and Mr Monjeza, runs counter to a positive trend.
"Britain has a close and strong partnership with Malawi and it is in this spirit that we raise our concerns. The UK believes that human rights apply to everyone regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
"The UK urges the government of Malawi to review its laws to ensure the defence of human rights for all, without discrimination on any grounds. The UK, along with our international partners, will continue to press the government of Malawi on this issue."
Mr Monjeza and Mr Chimbalanga had denied the charges. They have been kept in an overcrowded jail since their arrest in December and were repeatedly refused bail.
Gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell, who has been raising awareness of their plight, described the 14-year sentence as "brutal".
The couple were told by magistrate Nyakwawa Usiwa that they were being given a "scaring sentence" to prevent people trying to emulate them.
Mr Tatchell said today: "This is an appalling, vindictive and brutal sentence, which tramples on Malawi's constitution, violates personal privacy and reverses the country's commitment to human rights.
"With so much hatred and violence in Malawi, it is sick that the court has jailed these two men for loving and caring for each other."
Undule Mwakasungura, director of the Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation in South Africa told the South Africa Press Association: “This conviction and sentence raises serious concerns regarding the human rights of all individuals in Malawi … protecting human rights is not a western issue, it is a Malawian issue.”
The couple's lawyers have said they will appeal the sentence. They previously argued for a non-custodial punishment, auguring that no one had been harmed by the couple's actions.
The couple, Steven Monjeza, 26, and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, 20, were told by a judge today they would also serve hard labour as a warning to other gay people after being convicted of having anal sex.
A joint statement from junior Foreign Office ministers Henry Bellingham and Stephen O'Brien and junior equality minister Lynne Featherstone said they were "deeply dismayed" by the convictions and by reports the pair had suffered mistreatment in police custody.
It said: "Malawi has made significant progress on human rights in recent years. The government has signed up to international human rights treaties and Malawi's constitution protects the rights of all its citizens. Infringement of these rights is intolerable. The conviction and sentencing to the maximum 14 years' imprisonment of Mr Chimbalanga and Mr Monjeza, runs counter to a positive trend.
"Britain has a close and strong partnership with Malawi and it is in this spirit that we raise our concerns. The UK believes that human rights apply to everyone regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
"The UK urges the government of Malawi to review its laws to ensure the defence of human rights for all, without discrimination on any grounds. The UK, along with our international partners, will continue to press the government of Malawi on this issue."
Mr Monjeza and Mr Chimbalanga had denied the charges. They have been kept in an overcrowded jail since their arrest in December and were repeatedly refused bail.
Gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell, who has been raising awareness of their plight, described the 14-year sentence as "brutal".
The couple were told by magistrate Nyakwawa Usiwa that they were being given a "scaring sentence" to prevent people trying to emulate them.
Mr Tatchell said today: "This is an appalling, vindictive and brutal sentence, which tramples on Malawi's constitution, violates personal privacy and reverses the country's commitment to human rights.
"With so much hatred and violence in Malawi, it is sick that the court has jailed these two men for loving and caring for each other."
Undule Mwakasungura, director of the Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation in South Africa told the South Africa Press Association: “This conviction and sentence raises serious concerns regarding the human rights of all individuals in Malawi … protecting human rights is not a western issue, it is a Malawian issue.”
The couple's lawyers have said they will appeal the sentence. They previously argued for a non-custodial punishment, auguring that no one had been harmed by the couple's actions.
Maximum sentence!
A gay couple convicted of having homosexual sex in Malawi have received the maximum 14-year jail sentence.
Steven Monjeza, 26, and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, 20, were told by a judge they would also serve hard labour as a warning to other gay people in the country.
The couple were convicted on Tuesday of unnatural acts and gross indecency after being arrested in December.
Associated Press reports that magistrate Nyakwawa Usiwa told them: "I sentence you to 14 years imprisonment with hard labour each. That's the maximum under the penal code.
"I will give you a scaring sentence so that the public be protected from people like you, so that we are not tempted to emulate this horrendous example," he added.
The pair pleaded not guilty to the charges and were held in prison without bail for four and a half months.
On Tuesday, the Malawian minister of information, Leckford Mwanza Thotho, said the government was pleased at the conviction.
"What we are saying is that the ruling or the court proceeding as of today, reflects our tradition in Malawi. It just shows that the gay issue is against our culture in Malawi,” he said.
Amnesty International called for their immediate release and said their rights have been "flagrantly violated."
British Foreign Office ministers also expressed their concern at the conviction.
A joint statement from junior Foreign Office ministers Henry Bellingham and Stephen O'Brien and junior equality minister Lynne Featherstone said: "We are deeply dismayed by the conviction for buggery and indecent practices of Mr Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Mr Steven Monjeza.
"We are also very concerned by the allegations of their mistreatment in police custody.
The UK urges the government of Malawi to review its laws to ensure the defence of human rights for all, without discrimination on any grounds. The UK, along with our international partners, will continue to press the government of Malawi on this issue.'
Steven Monjeza, 26, and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, 20, were told by a judge they would also serve hard labour as a warning to other gay people in the country.
The couple were convicted on Tuesday of unnatural acts and gross indecency after being arrested in December.
Associated Press reports that magistrate Nyakwawa Usiwa told them: "I sentence you to 14 years imprisonment with hard labour each. That's the maximum under the penal code.
"I will give you a scaring sentence so that the public be protected from people like you, so that we are not tempted to emulate this horrendous example," he added.
The pair pleaded not guilty to the charges and were held in prison without bail for four and a half months.
On Tuesday, the Malawian minister of information, Leckford Mwanza Thotho, said the government was pleased at the conviction.
"What we are saying is that the ruling or the court proceeding as of today, reflects our tradition in Malawi. It just shows that the gay issue is against our culture in Malawi,” he said.
Amnesty International called for their immediate release and said their rights have been "flagrantly violated."
British Foreign Office ministers also expressed their concern at the conviction.
A joint statement from junior Foreign Office ministers Henry Bellingham and Stephen O'Brien and junior equality minister Lynne Featherstone said: "We are deeply dismayed by the conviction for buggery and indecent practices of Mr Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Mr Steven Monjeza.
"We are also very concerned by the allegations of their mistreatment in police custody.
The UK urges the government of Malawi to review its laws to ensure the defence of human rights for all, without discrimination on any grounds. The UK, along with our international partners, will continue to press the government of Malawi on this issue.'
There were pleas for non-custodial sentence, too, when the sun finally set
Lawyers for the gay Malawian couple found guilty of homosexual sex have asked for the pair to receive non-custodial sentences.
Stephen Monjeza, 26, and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, 20, were found guilty of unnatural acts and gross indecency yesterday.
Blantyre Chief Resident Magistrate Nyakwawa Usiwa is expected to sentence them tomorrow.
Although Malawi punishes homosexuality with up to 14 years of hard labour, the couple's lawyers have asked for a non-custodial sentence to reflect the fact they are first-time offenders and did not hurt anyone.
Mr Monjeza and Mr Chimbalanga pleaded not guilty to the charges. They were arrested on December 29th 2009 after holding a wedding ceremony and have been held in prison without bail for four and a half months.
Yesterday, the Malawian minister of information, Leckford Mwanza Thotho, said the government was pleased at the conviction.
"What we are saying is that the ruling or the court proceeding as of today, reflects our tradition in Malawi. It just shows that the gay issue is against our culture in Malawi,” he said.
Amnesty International has called for their immediate release.
Deputy Africa director Michelle Kagari said: "Their human rights, the rights to freedom from discrimination, of conscience, expression and privacy have been flagrantly violated."
Gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell told PinkNews.co.uk yesterday that the conviction breaches Malawi's constitution.
"This is an appalling verdict. There is no evidence to justify it," he said.
Stephen Monjeza, 26, and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, 20, were found guilty of unnatural acts and gross indecency yesterday.
Blantyre Chief Resident Magistrate Nyakwawa Usiwa is expected to sentence them tomorrow.
Although Malawi punishes homosexuality with up to 14 years of hard labour, the couple's lawyers have asked for a non-custodial sentence to reflect the fact they are first-time offenders and did not hurt anyone.
Mr Monjeza and Mr Chimbalanga pleaded not guilty to the charges. They were arrested on December 29th 2009 after holding a wedding ceremony and have been held in prison without bail for four and a half months.
Yesterday, the Malawian minister of information, Leckford Mwanza Thotho, said the government was pleased at the conviction.
"What we are saying is that the ruling or the court proceeding as of today, reflects our tradition in Malawi. It just shows that the gay issue is against our culture in Malawi,” he said.
Amnesty International has called for their immediate release.
Deputy Africa director Michelle Kagari said: "Their human rights, the rights to freedom from discrimination, of conscience, expression and privacy have been flagrantly violated."
Gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell told PinkNews.co.uk yesterday that the conviction breaches Malawi's constitution.
"This is an appalling verdict. There is no evidence to justify it," he said.
Finally: They were wrong- Stven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga
The gay Malawian couple arrested in December have been found guilty of unnatural acts and gross indecency.
Blantyre Chief Resident Magistrate Nyakwawa Usiwa issued the verdict today, Associated Press reports.
Stephen Monjeza, 26, and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, 20, were arrested after holding a traditional wedding ceremony.
They have been in custody since their arrest on December 27th and denied the charges against them.
Under Malawi's laws, they could face up to 14 years in jail.
The pair are expected to be sentenced on Thursday.
Gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell, who has been championing their case, argued that the prosecution had not proved they broke the law.
He told PinkNews.co.uk: "This is an appalling verdict. There is no evidence to justify it.
"Steven and Tiwonge freely confirmed their love for each other but the prosecution presented no credible evidence that they had committed any sexual acts.
"The law under which they were convicted is a law that only applies to same-sex relationships.
"It violates article 20 of the Malawi constitution, which guarantees equality and non-discrimination."
Lawyers for Mr Monjeza and Mr Chimbalanga attempted to have the case thrown out by arguing the trial violated constitutional laws but were unsuccessful.
Blantyre Chief Resident Magistrate Nyakwawa Usiwa issued the verdict today, Associated Press reports.
Stephen Monjeza, 26, and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, 20, were arrested after holding a traditional wedding ceremony.
They have been in custody since their arrest on December 27th and denied the charges against them.
Under Malawi's laws, they could face up to 14 years in jail.
The pair are expected to be sentenced on Thursday.
Gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell, who has been championing their case, argued that the prosecution had not proved they broke the law.
He told PinkNews.co.uk: "This is an appalling verdict. There is no evidence to justify it.
"Steven and Tiwonge freely confirmed their love for each other but the prosecution presented no credible evidence that they had committed any sexual acts.
"The law under which they were convicted is a law that only applies to same-sex relationships.
"It violates article 20 of the Malawi constitution, which guarantees equality and non-discrimination."
Lawyers for Mr Monjeza and Mr Chimbalanga attempted to have the case thrown out by arguing the trial violated constitutional laws but were unsuccessful.
The gays had the guts to say 'Thank you'
The gay Malawian couple who were arrested in December for holding a marriage ceremony have thanked their supporters from jail.
Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga have been in custody in a Blantyre prison for four months, having been denied bail.
They have both pleaded not guilty to charges of sodomy and indecency.
In messages relayed to gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell, the couple said they loved each other and thanked supporters for sending money.
Mr Monjeza was reported to be ill earlier this month with vomiting, sickness and jaundice due to the poor conditions in Chichiri jail. Supporters say his condition has improved slightly.
In the message, he said: "We have come a long way and even if our family relatives are not happy, I will not and never stop loving Tiwonge."
Mr Chimbalanga said: "I love Steven so much. If people or the world cannot give me the chance and freedom to continue living with him as my lover, then I am better off to die here in prison. Freedom without him is useless and meaningless."
Both men thanked those who had visited them and sent money for extra food to top up their prison rations.
Mr Monjeza said: "All the support is well appreciated. We are grateful to everybody who is doing this for us. May people please continue the commendable job."
Mr Tatchell, whose group OutRage! has been arranging support for the men, said: "Steven and Tiwonge are showing immense fortitude and courage. They declared their love in a society where many people – not all – are very intolerant and homophobic. This was a very brave thing to do.
"Although suffering in prison, they are unbowed. They continue to maintain their love and affirm their human right to be treated with dignity and respect."
Mr Monjeza and Mr Chimbalanga have not been convicted of any crime.
Unusually, they have been denied bail. Authorities have said this is for their own safety.
They were expected to be jailed last month but a judge delayed sentencing to allow them to defend the case.
Malawi has laws against homosexuality and the men could be jailed for up to 14 years.
Their supporters and lawyers argue their arrest and detention is unconstitutional.
Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga have been in custody in a Blantyre prison for four months, having been denied bail.
They have both pleaded not guilty to charges of sodomy and indecency.
In messages relayed to gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell, the couple said they loved each other and thanked supporters for sending money.
Mr Monjeza was reported to be ill earlier this month with vomiting, sickness and jaundice due to the poor conditions in Chichiri jail. Supporters say his condition has improved slightly.
In the message, he said: "We have come a long way and even if our family relatives are not happy, I will not and never stop loving Tiwonge."
Mr Chimbalanga said: "I love Steven so much. If people or the world cannot give me the chance and freedom to continue living with him as my lover, then I am better off to die here in prison. Freedom without him is useless and meaningless."
Both men thanked those who had visited them and sent money for extra food to top up their prison rations.
Mr Monjeza said: "All the support is well appreciated. We are grateful to everybody who is doing this for us. May people please continue the commendable job."
Mr Tatchell, whose group OutRage! has been arranging support for the men, said: "Steven and Tiwonge are showing immense fortitude and courage. They declared their love in a society where many people – not all – are very intolerant and homophobic. This was a very brave thing to do.
"Although suffering in prison, they are unbowed. They continue to maintain their love and affirm their human right to be treated with dignity and respect."
Mr Monjeza and Mr Chimbalanga have not been convicted of any crime.
Unusually, they have been denied bail. Authorities have said this is for their own safety.
They were expected to be jailed last month but a judge delayed sentencing to allow them to defend the case.
Malawi has laws against homosexuality and the men could be jailed for up to 14 years.
Their supporters and lawyers argue their arrest and detention is unconstitutional.
Then, there were the delays
Two gay men who held a wedding ceremony in Malawi have had their sentencing delayed.
Steven Monjeza, 26, and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, 20, were expected to be jailed today but the judge delayed sentencing and allowed them to call defence witnesses.
Magistrate Nyakwawa Usiwausiwa adjourned the case until April 3rd, saying the couple had a case to answer.
The couple's lawyer Oswald Ntuwakale told AFP: "The accused will want to defend themselves and call their own witnesses."
This morning's hearing was packed and reports said a large group of people outside the courtroom jostled to be allowed in.
Monjeza and Chimbalanga could face up to 14 years in jail, in line with the country's strict laws on homosexuality.
They have been in custody for almost three months, having twice been denied bail, and have pleaded not guilty to charges of sodomy and indecency.
They were arrested on December 28th after holding a traditional wedding ceremony in Blantyre.
Their lawyers argue their arrest and detention is unconstitutional.
A protest is being held today outside the Commonwealth offices in London to ask the Commonwealth to condemn homophobic persecution in Malawi.
Steven Monjeza, 26, and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, 20, were expected to be jailed today but the judge delayed sentencing and allowed them to call defence witnesses.
Magistrate Nyakwawa Usiwausiwa adjourned the case until April 3rd, saying the couple had a case to answer.
The couple's lawyer Oswald Ntuwakale told AFP: "The accused will want to defend themselves and call their own witnesses."
This morning's hearing was packed and reports said a large group of people outside the courtroom jostled to be allowed in.
Monjeza and Chimbalanga could face up to 14 years in jail, in line with the country's strict laws on homosexuality.
They have been in custody for almost three months, having twice been denied bail, and have pleaded not guilty to charges of sodomy and indecency.
They were arrested on December 28th after holding a traditional wedding ceremony in Blantyre.
Their lawyers argue their arrest and detention is unconstitutional.
A protest is being held today outside the Commonwealth offices in London to ask the Commonwealth to condemn homophobic persecution in Malawi.
Human Rights Watch got angry, too
Human Rights Watch (HWR) has written to the President of Malawi urging him to intervene in the sentencing tomorrow of two gay men convicted for taking part in a marriage ceremony.
Steven Monjeza, 26, and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, 20, were expected to be jailed last month, but the judge delayed sentencing and allowed them to call defence witnesses. The court is due to reconvene tomorrow (3rd April 2010). Monjeza and Chimbalanga could face up to 14 years in jail, in line with the country's strict laws on homosexuality.
They have been in custody for almost three months, where they have been subjected to assaults.. the couple have twice been denied bail, and have pleaded not guilty to charges of sodomy and indecency. They were arrested last December after holding a traditional wedding ceremony in Blantyre.
The full text of the letter to President Mutharika is below.
Human Rights Watch is one of the world's largest human rights organizations, documenting a broad range of human rights violations in over 80 countries. We are writing today to draw your attention once again to the ongoing criminal trial of Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza. Their arrest and imprisonment on grounds of their sexual orientation and gender identity, as we detail below, presents a grave threat to the human rights of all Malawians. We urge that all charges against Monjeza and Chimbnalanga are dropped, to uphold constitutional principles of equality, privacy and dignity.
Police arrested Tiwonge Chimbalanga (20) and Steven Monjeza (26) on December 28, 2009, because they conducted a traditional engagement ceremony in Blantyre on December 26. They were arrested at home and charged under Sections 153 ("unnatural offences") and 156 ("indecent practices between males") of Malawi's criminal code. They have been in custody since then, first at Blantyre police station, where they have described how police beat them in an effort to make them confess to having engaged in homosexual conduct and being in a homosexual relationship, and subsequently have been detained at Chichri prison.
A court denied both their request for bail and their appeal to have the matter moved to the Constitutional Court. Authorities subjected Chimbalanga to a medical examination, without consent, at Queen Elizabeth hospital on January 6, 2010, apparently aiming both to determine whether Chimbalanga had had sexual relations with males and establish Chimbalanga's gender. On January 7, both Chimbalanga and Monjeza were subjected-again without their consent-to psychiatric evaluation at Zomba Mental Hospital in Zomba city.
Their trial began at Blantyre Magistrate's Court on January 11 and the prosecution rested its case on March 22, 2010. The defense will present its case on April 6, 2010, and the verdict is expected soon after.
All this time, Chimbalanga and Monjeza have remained in prison. If found guilty, they may receive a sentence of up to 14 years with hard labor. Their families have disowned them and they rely upon local human rights organizations and their lawyers for legal aid and support. The case has received widespread media coverage locally and internationally, and Malawian human rights defenders fear that it has already dealt a harsh blow to HIV/AIDS education and prevention efforts among already marginalized populations of men who have sex with men.
The arrest and trial of Chimbalanga and Monjeza violate both domestic and international human rights standards. Articles 19, 20 and 21 of the Malawian constitution guarantee the rights to human dignity and personal freedoms, equality, and privacy. Articles 32 and 35 guarantee the rights to freedom of association and expression. The criminalization of consensual sexual conduct violates these and other principles of the constitution; it also violates human rights principles enshrined in international treaties to which Malawi is party.
The United Nations Human Rights Committee, which authoritatively interprets the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), found in the 1994 case of Toonen v. Australia that laws criminalizing consensual homosexual conduct among adults violate the ICCPR's protections for private life and against discrimination. Article 9 of the ICCPR secures the inherent dignity of persons deprived of liberty and Articles 17 and 19 guarantee the rights to privacy and freedom of expression. Articles 2 and 3 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights prohibit discrimination in an identical way to the ICCPR and require each individual to be equal before the law and be entitled to equal protection of the law. Article 28 of the Charter requires the promotion, respect for and reinforcement of "mutual respect and tolerance" between all individuals.
Forensic, medical, and psychiatric examinations performed upon individuals in detention and without their consent are abusive and may constitute torture. Their value in determining sexual orientation and consensual sexual practices has long been discredited. Article 19 (3) of Malawi's constitution promises that "No person shall be subject to torture of any kind or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment." Article 19 (5) guarantees that "no person shall be subjected to medical or scientific experimentation without his or her consent." Article 7 of the ICCPR prohibits torture and cruel or degrading treatment; it specifically promises that "no one shall be subjected without his free consent to medical or scientific experimentation."
In the light of the gross violation of the defendants' human rights, we once again call for the dropping of all charges and release of Chimbalanga and Monjeza. We ask this both in the interest of upholding Chimbalanga's and Monjeza's human rights as well as public health. At a minimum, we ask that Chimbalanga and Monjeza be released on bail immediately as their case is reviewed.
Scott Long
Director
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Rights Program
Steven Monjeza, 26, and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, 20, were expected to be jailed last month, but the judge delayed sentencing and allowed them to call defence witnesses. The court is due to reconvene tomorrow (3rd April 2010). Monjeza and Chimbalanga could face up to 14 years in jail, in line with the country's strict laws on homosexuality.
They have been in custody for almost three months, where they have been subjected to assaults.. the couple have twice been denied bail, and have pleaded not guilty to charges of sodomy and indecency. They were arrested last December after holding a traditional wedding ceremony in Blantyre.
The full text of the letter to President Mutharika is below.
Human Rights Watch is one of the world's largest human rights organizations, documenting a broad range of human rights violations in over 80 countries. We are writing today to draw your attention once again to the ongoing criminal trial of Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza. Their arrest and imprisonment on grounds of their sexual orientation and gender identity, as we detail below, presents a grave threat to the human rights of all Malawians. We urge that all charges against Monjeza and Chimbnalanga are dropped, to uphold constitutional principles of equality, privacy and dignity.
Police arrested Tiwonge Chimbalanga (20) and Steven Monjeza (26) on December 28, 2009, because they conducted a traditional engagement ceremony in Blantyre on December 26. They were arrested at home and charged under Sections 153 ("unnatural offences") and 156 ("indecent practices between males") of Malawi's criminal code. They have been in custody since then, first at Blantyre police station, where they have described how police beat them in an effort to make them confess to having engaged in homosexual conduct and being in a homosexual relationship, and subsequently have been detained at Chichri prison.
A court denied both their request for bail and their appeal to have the matter moved to the Constitutional Court. Authorities subjected Chimbalanga to a medical examination, without consent, at Queen Elizabeth hospital on January 6, 2010, apparently aiming both to determine whether Chimbalanga had had sexual relations with males and establish Chimbalanga's gender. On January 7, both Chimbalanga and Monjeza were subjected-again without their consent-to psychiatric evaluation at Zomba Mental Hospital in Zomba city.
Their trial began at Blantyre Magistrate's Court on January 11 and the prosecution rested its case on March 22, 2010. The defense will present its case on April 6, 2010, and the verdict is expected soon after.
All this time, Chimbalanga and Monjeza have remained in prison. If found guilty, they may receive a sentence of up to 14 years with hard labor. Their families have disowned them and they rely upon local human rights organizations and their lawyers for legal aid and support. The case has received widespread media coverage locally and internationally, and Malawian human rights defenders fear that it has already dealt a harsh blow to HIV/AIDS education and prevention efforts among already marginalized populations of men who have sex with men.
The arrest and trial of Chimbalanga and Monjeza violate both domestic and international human rights standards. Articles 19, 20 and 21 of the Malawian constitution guarantee the rights to human dignity and personal freedoms, equality, and privacy. Articles 32 and 35 guarantee the rights to freedom of association and expression. The criminalization of consensual sexual conduct violates these and other principles of the constitution; it also violates human rights principles enshrined in international treaties to which Malawi is party.
The United Nations Human Rights Committee, which authoritatively interprets the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), found in the 1994 case of Toonen v. Australia that laws criminalizing consensual homosexual conduct among adults violate the ICCPR's protections for private life and against discrimination. Article 9 of the ICCPR secures the inherent dignity of persons deprived of liberty and Articles 17 and 19 guarantee the rights to privacy and freedom of expression. Articles 2 and 3 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights prohibit discrimination in an identical way to the ICCPR and require each individual to be equal before the law and be entitled to equal protection of the law. Article 28 of the Charter requires the promotion, respect for and reinforcement of "mutual respect and tolerance" between all individuals.
Forensic, medical, and psychiatric examinations performed upon individuals in detention and without their consent are abusive and may constitute torture. Their value in determining sexual orientation and consensual sexual practices has long been discredited. Article 19 (3) of Malawi's constitution promises that "No person shall be subject to torture of any kind or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment." Article 19 (5) guarantees that "no person shall be subjected to medical or scientific experimentation without his or her consent." Article 7 of the ICCPR prohibits torture and cruel or degrading treatment; it specifically promises that "no one shall be subjected without his free consent to medical or scientific experimentation."
In the light of the gross violation of the defendants' human rights, we once again call for the dropping of all charges and release of Chimbalanga and Monjeza. We ask this both in the interest of upholding Chimbalanga's and Monjeza's human rights as well as public health. At a minimum, we ask that Chimbalanga and Monjeza be released on bail immediately as their case is reviewed.
Scott Long
Director
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Rights Program
When it happened, what did Malawi say
Malawi's government has defended the prosecution of a gay couple who had a wedding ceremony.
Information minister Leckford Mwanza Thoto said Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga were "clearly breaking the laws of Malawi."
He said: "Despite Malawi depending on international aid, the country is a sovereign country with its own laws and must not be influenced by the West in the running of its affairs of state."
Monjeze and Chimbalanga were arrested on December 28th after holding a wedding ceremony in Blantyre. They face up to 14 years in prison if convicted.
They have pleaded not guilty to the charges and have been remanded in custody after failing to secure bail.
Amnesty International has called for their release, saying the pair have committed no crime.
The men's lawyers are arguing that the prosecution is unconstitutional and have asked for a review of the country's homosexuality laws.
Their legal team has asked for the case to be held before the Constitutional Court, but the presiding judge in Blantyre has said he will continue with the trial until the higher court accepts the case.
The trial is expected to resume next week.
Information minister Leckford Mwanza Thoto said Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga were "clearly breaking the laws of Malawi."
He said: "Despite Malawi depending on international aid, the country is a sovereign country with its own laws and must not be influenced by the West in the running of its affairs of state."
Monjeze and Chimbalanga were arrested on December 28th after holding a wedding ceremony in Blantyre. They face up to 14 years in prison if convicted.
They have pleaded not guilty to the charges and have been remanded in custody after failing to secure bail.
Amnesty International has called for their release, saying the pair have committed no crime.
The men's lawyers are arguing that the prosecution is unconstitutional and have asked for a review of the country's homosexuality laws.
Their legal team has asked for the case to be held before the Constitutional Court, but the presiding judge in Blantyre has said he will continue with the trial until the higher court accepts the case.
The trial is expected to resume next week.
It happened, and angered the Scottish
More than 20 members of the Scottish parliament condemned the arrest of two gay men in Malawi who held a wedding ceremony.
The motion was signed by members of all main parties and called for parliament to condemn the "illegal and homophobic arrests" of Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga.
The couple are currently on trial and may face up to 14 years in prison if convicted.
Dundee West MSP Joe FitzPatrick, who introduced the motion, said that although Scotland does not have an official foreign policy role, he felt that parliament should speak up.
He said: "Malawi is one of several African countries adopting increasingly homophobic attitudes, with Uganda having recently introducing anti-homosexual legislation including the death penalty and other repressive practices being introduced in Gambia.
"Apart from the human rights violations, and the discriminatory nature of the contraventions, it is likely that these retrograde and illegal moves will considerably set back efforts to combat the massive problem of HIV AIDS in the African sub-continent."
The motion also calls for an end to police harassment of HIV educators and human rights defenders in the country.
Lawyers acting for Monjeza and Chimbalanga have asked for a review of the country's homosexuality ban.
The couple were arrested on December 28th in Blantyre after holding a public ceremony. They are currently in custody in Chichiri prison.
Their legal team has asked for the case to be held before the Constitutional Court, but the presiding judge in Blantyre has said he will continue with the trial until the higher court accepts the case.
Judge Nyakwawa Usiwausiwa agreed that a constitutional review could take place.
The motion was signed by members of all main parties and called for parliament to condemn the "illegal and homophobic arrests" of Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga.
The couple are currently on trial and may face up to 14 years in prison if convicted.
Dundee West MSP Joe FitzPatrick, who introduced the motion, said that although Scotland does not have an official foreign policy role, he felt that parliament should speak up.
He said: "Malawi is one of several African countries adopting increasingly homophobic attitudes, with Uganda having recently introducing anti-homosexual legislation including the death penalty and other repressive practices being introduced in Gambia.
"Apart from the human rights violations, and the discriminatory nature of the contraventions, it is likely that these retrograde and illegal moves will considerably set back efforts to combat the massive problem of HIV AIDS in the African sub-continent."
The motion also calls for an end to police harassment of HIV educators and human rights defenders in the country.
Lawyers acting for Monjeza and Chimbalanga have asked for a review of the country's homosexuality ban.
The couple were arrested on December 28th in Blantyre after holding a public ceremony. They are currently in custody in Chichiri prison.
Their legal team has asked for the case to be held before the Constitutional Court, but the presiding judge in Blantyre has said he will continue with the trial until the higher court accepts the case.
Judge Nyakwawa Usiwausiwa agreed that a constitutional review could take place.
As if they did not happen, then
A Malawian transgender woman and her partner, who were arrested in December after holding an engagement party at a hotel, were sentenced to 14 years in prison May 20 after being convicted of gross indecency and unnatural acts.
The couple has been identified as a gay couple in numerous media outlets but several reports now suggest the two identify as a man and transgender woman.
Blantyre Magistrate Nyakwawa Usiwa Usiwa told Steven Monjeza, 26, and Tiwonge Chimbalanga: "That's the maximum [sentence] under the penal code. I will give you a scaring sentence so that the public be protected from people like you, so that we are not tempted to emulate this horrendous example."
Chimbalanga, 33, identifies as a woman.
The stiff sentences, which include hard labor, generated blistering criticism from around the world.
"The United States strongly condemns the conviction and harsh sentencing of Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga in Malawi," said a statement from White House press secretary Robert Gibbs. "The criminalization of sexual orientation and gender identity is unconscionable, and this case mars the human rights record of Malawi. We urge Malawi and all countries to stop using sexual orientation or gender identity as the basis for arrest, detention, or execution."
The International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission called the convictions and sentences "part of a broader pattern of mounting pressure and persecution on LGBT people by authorities in Malawi."
"This persecution has come from the highest levels of government," the group said. "On April 23, President Bingu wa Mutharika reportedly denounced homosexuality as 'un-Malawian,' 'evil,' and 'disgusting' and linked it to corruption, violence, theft, and prostitution."
Malawi's Center for the Development of People said the couple's imprisonment will "drive the gay community further into hiding."
"It is not only a ruling against Steven and Tiwonge but the whole LGBT community in Malawi and Africa," said spokesperson Dunker Kamba.
U.S. State Department spokesman Philip Crowley said Malawi should decriminalize gay sex.
"The United States is deeply disappointed in today's conviction of same-sex couple Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza in Malawi," Crowley said. "We view the criminalization of sexual orientation and gender identity as a step backward in the protection of human rights in Malawi. ... The United States views the decriminalization of sexual orientation and gender identity as integral to the protection of human rights in Malawi and elsewhere in the world."
Malawi is heavily dependent on foreign aid, which makes up some 40 percent of its budget, according to the New York Times .
Portugal legalizes same-sex marriage
Portugal became the 10th country in the world where same-sex couples can marry on May 17 when President An'bal Cavaco Silva grudgingly signed a bill that was passed by Parliament and vetted by the Constitutional Court.
Cavaco Silva, who does not support the law, had little choice in the matter. Had he vetoed it, Parliament would have passed it again, which would have forced him to ratify it eight days later.
"I understand that I should not contribute to uselessly extending this debate," the president said in a televised statement, explaining that he would have preferred to enact a civil union law in order to "respect the institution of marriage as a union between a man and woman."
"I do not think anyone honestly can consider the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Switzerland or Denmark as backward countries," Cavaco Silva said in reference to European nations that do not let same-sex couples marry but give them the same rights under registered-partnership laws.
"The partisan forces that approved the law would not consider an elementary principle of political action in a plural society: to choose from among the various legal solutions one that was likely to create less social conflict or one that could be acceptable to the largest number of citizens, whatever their worldview," the president complained.
Correspondent Jo?o Paulo from PortugalGay.pt said, however, that the bill had not been particularly controversial.
"It was not a 'fracture' subject in our society," Paulo said. "People don't care that much about civil marriage being open to same-sex couples – just a small group of extremist Catholics have tried to put a stop to it. There were even some opinion polls with the majority in favor of the move."
"I must say that I was surprised with the president's message," Paulo added. "I was expecting some personal opinion against it, but not anything like this."
The law excludes access to adoption for same-sex couples. Activists said they plan to tackle that deficiency quickly.
The first same-sex weddings are expected to take place around May 29, once the law has been officially published and then five more calendar days have passed.
Same-sex marriage also is legal in Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, Norway, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Mexico City, Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Washington, D.C.
The next addition to the list likely will be Iceland.
LGBTs stage IDAHO flashmob in St. Petersburg
More than 150 people from the LGBT group Coming Out staged a "Rainbow Flashmob" in St. Petersburg, Russia, on May 16 in conjunction with the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia.
They distributed pamphlets and released multicolored balloons "symbolizing their dream of a world free of hate and homophobia," organizers said.
Far-right groups had threatened to attack the event, but the confrontation did not materialize.
"By coming to the event, people demonstrate that they will not be bullied," said Coming Out spokesman Igor Kochetkov. "Each time, the LGBT community of St. Petersburg becomes more and more self-confident in showing itself."
IDAHO flashmobs took place in dozens of other cities in Russia and elsewhere.
Gays march in Brussels and Havana
More than 30,000 people marched in Brussels May 15 for gay pride. They demanded equality for LGBT people throughout Europe. Belgium takes over the rotating European Union presidency in July.
Meanwhile, in Havana, hundreds of LGBT people marched in the Vedado nightlife district May 15 in advance of the May 17 observance of IDAHO. They were led by President Ra?l Castro's daughter Mariela, who heads Cenesex, the National Sex Education Center.
Other Cuban IDAHO events included workshops on LGBT issues and a huge, officially sanctioned outdoor drag show May 17 in the city of Santa Clara, 160 miles (258 km) east of Havana.
Aussies rally for marriage equality
Gays and lesbians staged large rallies in Australia's cities May 15 demanding federal legalization of same-sex marriage.
The rallies coincided with IDAHO.
British gay actor Sir Ian McKellen addressed more than 1,000 people in Melbourne.
"A non-discrimination law establishing the right for gay people to be married would cost the Australian government nothing financially and would gain for you worldwide respect [and] would change lives enormously," McKellen said.
Marchers arrested at Minsk pride fined $6 each
Seven people who were arrested when police violently broke up the first gay pride parade in Minsk, Belarus, on May 15 were released two days later after paying a fine of 17,500 rubles ($5.83) each for taking part in an unsanctioned public action.
The detained activists included St. Petersburg Pride organizers Aleksandr Sheremetyev and Dmitri Milkov.
City authorities had banned the parade, citing a national law that prohibits public events within 200 meters of subway stations and pedestrian tunnels.
When 40 people marched anyway, police attacked them and beat them.
The couple has been identified as a gay couple in numerous media outlets but several reports now suggest the two identify as a man and transgender woman.
Blantyre Magistrate Nyakwawa Usiwa Usiwa told Steven Monjeza, 26, and Tiwonge Chimbalanga: "That's the maximum [sentence] under the penal code. I will give you a scaring sentence so that the public be protected from people like you, so that we are not tempted to emulate this horrendous example."
Chimbalanga, 33, identifies as a woman.
The stiff sentences, which include hard labor, generated blistering criticism from around the world.
"The United States strongly condemns the conviction and harsh sentencing of Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga in Malawi," said a statement from White House press secretary Robert Gibbs. "The criminalization of sexual orientation and gender identity is unconscionable, and this case mars the human rights record of Malawi. We urge Malawi and all countries to stop using sexual orientation or gender identity as the basis for arrest, detention, or execution."
The International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission called the convictions and sentences "part of a broader pattern of mounting pressure and persecution on LGBT people by authorities in Malawi."
"This persecution has come from the highest levels of government," the group said. "On April 23, President Bingu wa Mutharika reportedly denounced homosexuality as 'un-Malawian,' 'evil,' and 'disgusting' and linked it to corruption, violence, theft, and prostitution."
Malawi's Center for the Development of People said the couple's imprisonment will "drive the gay community further into hiding."
"It is not only a ruling against Steven and Tiwonge but the whole LGBT community in Malawi and Africa," said spokesperson Dunker Kamba.
U.S. State Department spokesman Philip Crowley said Malawi should decriminalize gay sex.
"The United States is deeply disappointed in today's conviction of same-sex couple Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza in Malawi," Crowley said. "We view the criminalization of sexual orientation and gender identity as a step backward in the protection of human rights in Malawi. ... The United States views the decriminalization of sexual orientation and gender identity as integral to the protection of human rights in Malawi and elsewhere in the world."
Malawi is heavily dependent on foreign aid, which makes up some 40 percent of its budget, according to the New York Times .
Portugal legalizes same-sex marriage
Portugal became the 10th country in the world where same-sex couples can marry on May 17 when President An'bal Cavaco Silva grudgingly signed a bill that was passed by Parliament and vetted by the Constitutional Court.
Cavaco Silva, who does not support the law, had little choice in the matter. Had he vetoed it, Parliament would have passed it again, which would have forced him to ratify it eight days later.
"I understand that I should not contribute to uselessly extending this debate," the president said in a televised statement, explaining that he would have preferred to enact a civil union law in order to "respect the institution of marriage as a union between a man and woman."
"I do not think anyone honestly can consider the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Switzerland or Denmark as backward countries," Cavaco Silva said in reference to European nations that do not let same-sex couples marry but give them the same rights under registered-partnership laws.
"The partisan forces that approved the law would not consider an elementary principle of political action in a plural society: to choose from among the various legal solutions one that was likely to create less social conflict or one that could be acceptable to the largest number of citizens, whatever their worldview," the president complained.
Correspondent Jo?o Paulo from PortugalGay.pt said, however, that the bill had not been particularly controversial.
"It was not a 'fracture' subject in our society," Paulo said. "People don't care that much about civil marriage being open to same-sex couples – just a small group of extremist Catholics have tried to put a stop to it. There were even some opinion polls with the majority in favor of the move."
"I must say that I was surprised with the president's message," Paulo added. "I was expecting some personal opinion against it, but not anything like this."
The law excludes access to adoption for same-sex couples. Activists said they plan to tackle that deficiency quickly.
The first same-sex weddings are expected to take place around May 29, once the law has been officially published and then five more calendar days have passed.
Same-sex marriage also is legal in Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, Norway, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Mexico City, Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Washington, D.C.
The next addition to the list likely will be Iceland.
LGBTs stage IDAHO flashmob in St. Petersburg
More than 150 people from the LGBT group Coming Out staged a "Rainbow Flashmob" in St. Petersburg, Russia, on May 16 in conjunction with the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia.
They distributed pamphlets and released multicolored balloons "symbolizing their dream of a world free of hate and homophobia," organizers said.
Far-right groups had threatened to attack the event, but the confrontation did not materialize.
"By coming to the event, people demonstrate that they will not be bullied," said Coming Out spokesman Igor Kochetkov. "Each time, the LGBT community of St. Petersburg becomes more and more self-confident in showing itself."
IDAHO flashmobs took place in dozens of other cities in Russia and elsewhere.
Gays march in Brussels and Havana
More than 30,000 people marched in Brussels May 15 for gay pride. They demanded equality for LGBT people throughout Europe. Belgium takes over the rotating European Union presidency in July.
Meanwhile, in Havana, hundreds of LGBT people marched in the Vedado nightlife district May 15 in advance of the May 17 observance of IDAHO. They were led by President Ra?l Castro's daughter Mariela, who heads Cenesex, the National Sex Education Center.
Other Cuban IDAHO events included workshops on LGBT issues and a huge, officially sanctioned outdoor drag show May 17 in the city of Santa Clara, 160 miles (258 km) east of Havana.
Aussies rally for marriage equality
Gays and lesbians staged large rallies in Australia's cities May 15 demanding federal legalization of same-sex marriage.
The rallies coincided with IDAHO.
British gay actor Sir Ian McKellen addressed more than 1,000 people in Melbourne.
"A non-discrimination law establishing the right for gay people to be married would cost the Australian government nothing financially and would gain for you worldwide respect [and] would change lives enormously," McKellen said.
Marchers arrested at Minsk pride fined $6 each
Seven people who were arrested when police violently broke up the first gay pride parade in Minsk, Belarus, on May 15 were released two days later after paying a fine of 17,500 rubles ($5.83) each for taking part in an unsanctioned public action.
The detained activists included St. Petersburg Pride organizers Aleksandr Sheremetyev and Dmitri Milkov.
City authorities had banned the parade, citing a national law that prohibits public events within 200 meters of subway stations and pedestrian tunnels.
When 40 people marched anyway, police attacked them and beat them.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
In Mwanza with HIV-positive children
Yesterday, I went to Mwanza district and saw children, as young as three years old, living with HIV.
Their faces could tell, some of them, that they had 'something' within; in their blood system.
Their poarents told me they have been failing to tell the kids they are HIV-positive. Yet, they take ARVs. Ignorantly.
Thinking it is Panado or Aspirit.
The children never ask what it is. They are just obedient, taking it as it comes.
My heart bred, and breeds, for them.
Should I say it is time, that these innocent children have HIV?
It was so sad for me yesterday.
Perhaps one day, we shall have an HIV-free world.
Their faces could tell, some of them, that they had 'something' within; in their blood system.
Their poarents told me they have been failing to tell the kids they are HIV-positive. Yet, they take ARVs. Ignorantly.
Thinking it is Panado or Aspirit.
The children never ask what it is. They are just obedient, taking it as it comes.
My heart bred, and breeds, for them.
Should I say it is time, that these innocent children have HIV?
It was so sad for me yesterday.
Perhaps one day, we shall have an HIV-free world.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Greenbelt Christian festival hosts Peter Tatchell
Three talks this weekend in Cheltenham
Boycott call by Anglican Mainstream is a flop
Ticket sales boosted by evangelical distortions and slurs
Latest Anglican Mainstream smear campaign is shameful
London - 26 August 2010
Calls for a boycott of the Christian arts festival, Greenbelt, have flopped. The boycott campaign was orchestrated by leading consultant with Anglican Mainstream, the Church of England's conservative and traditionalist wing.
Dr Lisa Nolland, in an appeal posted on the Anglican Mainstream website earlier this year, called on Christians to stay away from this weekend's festival in protest at the decision by the organisers to host three talks by gay rights and human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell.
Undeterred by their failure to rouse significant Christian support for a boycott, Anglican Mainstream last week promoted another series of misleading attacks on Mr Tatchell:
http://www.anglican-mainstream.net/2010/08/18/how-well-do-you-know-the-real-peter-tatchell/
Earlier this year, Ms Nolland said that inviting Mr Tatchell to Greenbelt will put children at risk of sexual abuse.
See the Church of England Newspaper report below.
"The suggestion that my guest lectures at Greenbelt will leave children vulnerable to sexual abuse is a sordid slur, unworthy of a Christian," said Mr Tatchell, who has previously spoken at Greenbelt and received an overwhelmingly warm and positive reception from packed out religious audiences.
"My Greenbelt talks are not about teen sexuality, sex education or the age of consent. They are about vegetarianism, animal liberation, environmental protection and the persecution of gay people in Africa.
"Homophobic oppression in many parts of Africa is being orchestrated by Christian evangelicals, especially in countries like Uganda, Malawi and Nigeria. They share Anglican Mainstream's harsh, fundamentalist interpretation of scripture.
"I will be praising the courageous, inspiring defence of gay human rights by some African Christian leaders, such as Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Bishop Christopher Senyonjo of Uganda, who has been hounded and cast out by the Anglican Church of Uganda.
"Dr Nolland's latest attack on the Anglican Mainstream website, on 18 August, gives a distorted, biased and unbalanced account of my beliefs:
http://www.anglican-mainstream.net/2010/08/18/how-well-do-you-know-the-real-peter-tatchell/
"She delights in partial, selective quotes that misrepresent my stated opinions. Some of what she says infers guilt by association. Attacking me, she quotes the statements of others on sex with children, despite the fact that I disagree with what they say. These are McCarthyite-style smears and insinuations.
"Lisa and her Anglican Mainstream friends should reread the Ten Commandments, where it warns against bearing false witness.
"I am happy to debate with anyone from Anglican Mainstream. I await their invitation.
"Until she was criticised, Dr Nolland ignored my human rights work on global poverty, disarmament and anti-racism, and my support for the democratic struggles in Zimbabwe, Burma, Iran, Russia, Baluchistan and Uganda. She initially failed to mention a word about my condemnation of the persecution of Christians in countries like Saudi Arabia and Pakistan and my opposition to the prosecution of homophobic street preachers like Harry Hammond, Shawn Holes and Dale McApline.
"Lisa Nolland presented a selective and distorted account of my essay on sex education. She neglected to mention my advocacy of a sexual moral framework of mutual consent, respect and fulfilment, and my proposals to help protect young people against sex abuse.
"Why does Anglican Mainstream ignore the ethical dimensions of my writings and campaigns?"
"Nevertheless, I would like to thank Anglican Mainstream for helping encourage extra interest in Greenbelt; resulting in more people now planning to attend this year's festival because of the controversy and publicity over my invitation.
"I'm looking forward to meeting the many Christians who are actively involved in campaigns for human rights, equality, democracy and social justice. We have more in common than divides us.
"I hope to offer some challenging ideas, and in turn be challenged by the audience. During the question and answer sessions, I'll be very happy to accept criticisms and counter-arguments. I welcome debate," said Mr Tatchell.
Dr Nolland's posting on the Anglican Mainstream website (12 May 2010), reiterates her earlier opposition to Mr Tatchell being an invited speaker at Greenbelt and concludes with this comment:
"Would a committed racist, pimp or Moslem with four wives and twenty-one children be put in the 2010 Greenbelt line-up if their poetry or art was unexcelled or their science was solving the problem of world hunger?"
http://www.anglican-mainstream.net/2010/05/12/greenbelt-and-peter-tatchell-an-update-2/
This is what Ms Nolland claims Peter Tatchell is advocating for sex education in schools:
http://www.anglican-mainstream.net/2010/04/29/ii-open-letter-to-greenbelt-on-its-invitations-to-robinson-and-tatchell/
This is the full account, including the moral perspectives, of what he wrote in his chapter in the book, Teenage Sex - What should schools teach children?:
http://www.petertatchell.net/sex%20education/schoolsex.htm
This is Dr Nolland's version of an interview that Peter Tatchell conducted on under-age sex and child sex abuse:
http://www.anglican-mainstream.net/2010/04/29/ii-open-letter-to-greenbelt-on-its-invitations-to-robinson-and-tatchell/
This is the full account of Mr Tatchell's interview with 14 year-old Lee. It is not an advocacy or approval of his sexual relationships with older men, but merely a reportage of Lee's perspective:
http://www.petertatchell.net/age%20of%20consent/14%20gay%20boyfriend.htm
More information: Peter Tatchell - 0207 403 1790
News report Church of England Newspaper
By Toby Cohen, 6 May 2010
BOYCOTT GREENBELT if you want to safeguard vulnerable children, said an Anglican Mainstream consultant after her concerns over the presence of Peter Tatchell at this year's festival were ignored.
Dr Lisa Nolland wrote an open letter to the festival organisers complaining about "the further gayification of Greenbelt," following the invitation of the gay rights campaigner, which she saw as compounding damage done by inviting the Bishop of New Hampshire, the Rt Rev Gene Robinson, to speak last year.
Dr Nolland wrote: "We are very concerned and alarmed. We would like to meet with you because we believe this is damaging to both Christian witness and the health of the nation. "Both Gene Robinson and Peter Tatchell are bad news for the church and for Greenbelt. Greenbelt does much that is good and even excellent. Why spoil it with such as this? "In the light of the above, I would very much appreciate an explanation of your invitation to Peter Tatchell for 2010, given your invitation to Gene Robin- son in 2009. "You will recall the specific concerns we raised about ensuring that equal airtime was given to orthodox Christian perspectives. On the face of it seems that our concerns have fallen on deaf ears."
Anglican Mainstream has posted a response from the festival on its website, which reads: "Each year Greenbelt hosts speakers with varying and sometimes contrasting views on a whole range of subjects. At any one time, we also ensure there are a range of lineup items that which they feel comfortable with."
Dr Nolland told The Church of England Newspaper that this statement was disingenuous. Not only did she decry the absence of a speaker who could present "the orthodox Biblical position on sexual ethics," she also suspected that the liberal campaigners were denying the voice of less palatable sexualities who might taint their case.
Dr Nolland said: "If Greenbelt actually wanted to have a really open honest discussion about all this, I'd have a far easier time with it. But instead - they talk about how they include and accept all and all are welcomed etc - that's rubbish. There are all sorts of orientations out there who say 'look, LGBT people are doing to us what straight people did to them for centuries'.
Once the campaigners are accepted, they will then start leading Christians further astray, Dr Nolland fears. Illustrating how far this could go, she pointed to an interview Mr Tatchell conducted with a 14- year-old boy, 'Lee', who was sexually active with older men from the age of 12 and suggests that we should rethink our attitudes towards paedophilia.
Dr Nolland said that attending the festival will leave children more vulnerable to sexual abuse, because of Mr Tatchell's erosion of boundaries, "particularly if they are told we need to question - explore, try this, try that, try 200 things later on, explore your sexuality - that's actually a really bad idea".
Mr Tatchell is currently in Australia attending a family funeral, and no one from Greenbelt was available to comment.
Boycott call by Anglican Mainstream is a flop
Ticket sales boosted by evangelical distortions and slurs
Latest Anglican Mainstream smear campaign is shameful
London - 26 August 2010
Calls for a boycott of the Christian arts festival, Greenbelt, have flopped. The boycott campaign was orchestrated by leading consultant with Anglican Mainstream, the Church of England's conservative and traditionalist wing.
Dr Lisa Nolland, in an appeal posted on the Anglican Mainstream website earlier this year, called on Christians to stay away from this weekend's festival in protest at the decision by the organisers to host three talks by gay rights and human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell.
Undeterred by their failure to rouse significant Christian support for a boycott, Anglican Mainstream last week promoted another series of misleading attacks on Mr Tatchell:
http://www.anglican-mainstream.net/2010/08/18/how-well-do-you-know-the-real-peter-tatchell/
Earlier this year, Ms Nolland said that inviting Mr Tatchell to Greenbelt will put children at risk of sexual abuse.
See the Church of England Newspaper report below.
"The suggestion that my guest lectures at Greenbelt will leave children vulnerable to sexual abuse is a sordid slur, unworthy of a Christian," said Mr Tatchell, who has previously spoken at Greenbelt and received an overwhelmingly warm and positive reception from packed out religious audiences.
"My Greenbelt talks are not about teen sexuality, sex education or the age of consent. They are about vegetarianism, animal liberation, environmental protection and the persecution of gay people in Africa.
"Homophobic oppression in many parts of Africa is being orchestrated by Christian evangelicals, especially in countries like Uganda, Malawi and Nigeria. They share Anglican Mainstream's harsh, fundamentalist interpretation of scripture.
"I will be praising the courageous, inspiring defence of gay human rights by some African Christian leaders, such as Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Bishop Christopher Senyonjo of Uganda, who has been hounded and cast out by the Anglican Church of Uganda.
"Dr Nolland's latest attack on the Anglican Mainstream website, on 18 August, gives a distorted, biased and unbalanced account of my beliefs:
http://www.anglican-mainstream.net/2010/08/18/how-well-do-you-know-the-real-peter-tatchell/
"She delights in partial, selective quotes that misrepresent my stated opinions. Some of what she says infers guilt by association. Attacking me, she quotes the statements of others on sex with children, despite the fact that I disagree with what they say. These are McCarthyite-style smears and insinuations.
"Lisa and her Anglican Mainstream friends should reread the Ten Commandments, where it warns against bearing false witness.
"I am happy to debate with anyone from Anglican Mainstream. I await their invitation.
"Until she was criticised, Dr Nolland ignored my human rights work on global poverty, disarmament and anti-racism, and my support for the democratic struggles in Zimbabwe, Burma, Iran, Russia, Baluchistan and Uganda. She initially failed to mention a word about my condemnation of the persecution of Christians in countries like Saudi Arabia and Pakistan and my opposition to the prosecution of homophobic street preachers like Harry Hammond, Shawn Holes and Dale McApline.
"Lisa Nolland presented a selective and distorted account of my essay on sex education. She neglected to mention my advocacy of a sexual moral framework of mutual consent, respect and fulfilment, and my proposals to help protect young people against sex abuse.
"Why does Anglican Mainstream ignore the ethical dimensions of my writings and campaigns?"
"Nevertheless, I would like to thank Anglican Mainstream for helping encourage extra interest in Greenbelt; resulting in more people now planning to attend this year's festival because of the controversy and publicity over my invitation.
"I'm looking forward to meeting the many Christians who are actively involved in campaigns for human rights, equality, democracy and social justice. We have more in common than divides us.
"I hope to offer some challenging ideas, and in turn be challenged by the audience. During the question and answer sessions, I'll be very happy to accept criticisms and counter-arguments. I welcome debate," said Mr Tatchell.
Dr Nolland's posting on the Anglican Mainstream website (12 May 2010), reiterates her earlier opposition to Mr Tatchell being an invited speaker at Greenbelt and concludes with this comment:
"Would a committed racist, pimp or Moslem with four wives and twenty-one children be put in the 2010 Greenbelt line-up if their poetry or art was unexcelled or their science was solving the problem of world hunger?"
http://www.anglican-mainstream.net/2010/05/12/greenbelt-and-peter-tatchell-an-update-2/
This is what Ms Nolland claims Peter Tatchell is advocating for sex education in schools:
http://www.anglican-mainstream.net/2010/04/29/ii-open-letter-to-greenbelt-on-its-invitations-to-robinson-and-tatchell/
This is the full account, including the moral perspectives, of what he wrote in his chapter in the book, Teenage Sex - What should schools teach children?:
http://www.petertatchell.net/sex%20education/schoolsex.htm
This is Dr Nolland's version of an interview that Peter Tatchell conducted on under-age sex and child sex abuse:
http://www.anglican-mainstream.net/2010/04/29/ii-open-letter-to-greenbelt-on-its-invitations-to-robinson-and-tatchell/
This is the full account of Mr Tatchell's interview with 14 year-old Lee. It is not an advocacy or approval of his sexual relationships with older men, but merely a reportage of Lee's perspective:
http://www.petertatchell.net/age%20of%20consent/14%20gay%20boyfriend.htm
More information: Peter Tatchell - 0207 403 1790
News report Church of England Newspaper
By Toby Cohen, 6 May 2010
BOYCOTT GREENBELT if you want to safeguard vulnerable children, said an Anglican Mainstream consultant after her concerns over the presence of Peter Tatchell at this year's festival were ignored.
Dr Lisa Nolland wrote an open letter to the festival organisers complaining about "the further gayification of Greenbelt," following the invitation of the gay rights campaigner, which she saw as compounding damage done by inviting the Bishop of New Hampshire, the Rt Rev Gene Robinson, to speak last year.
Dr Nolland wrote: "We are very concerned and alarmed. We would like to meet with you because we believe this is damaging to both Christian witness and the health of the nation. "Both Gene Robinson and Peter Tatchell are bad news for the church and for Greenbelt. Greenbelt does much that is good and even excellent. Why spoil it with such as this? "In the light of the above, I would very much appreciate an explanation of your invitation to Peter Tatchell for 2010, given your invitation to Gene Robin- son in 2009. "You will recall the specific concerns we raised about ensuring that equal airtime was given to orthodox Christian perspectives. On the face of it seems that our concerns have fallen on deaf ears."
Anglican Mainstream has posted a response from the festival on its website, which reads: "Each year Greenbelt hosts speakers with varying and sometimes contrasting views on a whole range of subjects. At any one time, we also ensure there are a range of lineup items that which they feel comfortable with."
Dr Nolland told The Church of England Newspaper that this statement was disingenuous. Not only did she decry the absence of a speaker who could present "the orthodox Biblical position on sexual ethics," she also suspected that the liberal campaigners were denying the voice of less palatable sexualities who might taint their case.
Dr Nolland said: "If Greenbelt actually wanted to have a really open honest discussion about all this, I'd have a far easier time with it. But instead - they talk about how they include and accept all and all are welcomed etc - that's rubbish. There are all sorts of orientations out there who say 'look, LGBT people are doing to us what straight people did to them for centuries'.
Once the campaigners are accepted, they will then start leading Christians further astray, Dr Nolland fears. Illustrating how far this could go, she pointed to an interview Mr Tatchell conducted with a 14- year-old boy, 'Lee', who was sexually active with older men from the age of 12 and suggests that we should rethink our attitudes towards paedophilia.
Dr Nolland said that attending the festival will leave children more vulnerable to sexual abuse, because of Mr Tatchell's erosion of boundaries, "particularly if they are told we need to question - explore, try this, try that, try 200 things later on, explore your sexuality - that's actually a really bad idea".
Mr Tatchell is currently in Australia attending a family funeral, and no one from Greenbelt was available to comment.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Bingu wa Mutharika has no powers to close down Malawian newspapers
This one is for you, His Excellency the State President of the Republic of Malawi, Sir.
I was there, at the Trade Fair Grounds yesterday, when you threatened to close down newspapers purported to be funded by donors. It is a shame, I must say- the most senseless speech of the Century. I mean, Millennium.
Who do you think you are, His Excellency the State President of the Republic of Malawi, Sir, to threaten to close down our wonderful newspapers?
By the way, when last did you buy a newspaper yourself, Sir. Actually, you don't buy newspapers with money from your pocket; you use money from tax-payers. Me and my fellow citizens.
And you have the qualm to say you will not hesitate to arrest journalists and close down newspapers. Did you pay for their fees, the time they went to school?
In fact, you promised to send some journalists to school for further education. nd today, you haven't done that. Unfulfilled promises.
Unlike His Excellency the State President, Ngwazi Professor Bingu wa Mutharika.
Some misguided Malawians, because of the ignorance we have, and which you take advantage of to hoodwink us, are even calling you Professor Doctor. When will Malawians learn?
Now, let me tell you, Sir, that you have no powers to close down our newspapers- not even a muscle to do that. Because it is illegal.
Sometimes, your ill-advised advisers aremisguiding you- feeding you bluffy meals. One day you said Mr. Humphreys Mvula owned the Dispatch Newspaper, when he owned The Malawi Standard. And you said it in public. Without any regrets.
It is a sign of the mediocrity of some of the people we call Presidentail advisers. Actually, you choose them either because they are related to you; or they are political zealots from your party- the mighty Democratic Progressive Party.
Shame.
But you have no powers to close down newspapers and arrest journalists in this country. This is free Malawi. And we don't fear to fight for our rights.
We will not allow you to close down our newspapers. No. Not when I live.
You simply have no such powers. Zachimalawi has said. And this is more than a Presidentail Decree.
Hear this; hear this. You will not close the papers.
After all, you have tried to 'kill' some of the papers by freezing govenment adverts. And failed.
This threat is an acknowledgement of failure. Oh, yes! Failure. Failure to choke and kill our papers.
I now I willnot allow you to close down our newspapers. More so when you have no newspapers of your own, which I know would have been a failure.
You contributed nothing to these newspapers. In fact, you have them.
This is our country. We will defend it from impunity and dictatorship.
Yes, we will.
I suspect that you were sent by our donors to say this!
It is a reckless statement that will never be allowed to pass. No.
Not when Zachimalawi is here.
No.
You have no powers to close down our newspapers Sir; and such powers you will never have.
I rest my case.
I.
I was there, at the Trade Fair Grounds yesterday, when you threatened to close down newspapers purported to be funded by donors. It is a shame, I must say- the most senseless speech of the Century. I mean, Millennium.
Who do you think you are, His Excellency the State President of the Republic of Malawi, Sir, to threaten to close down our wonderful newspapers?
By the way, when last did you buy a newspaper yourself, Sir. Actually, you don't buy newspapers with money from your pocket; you use money from tax-payers. Me and my fellow citizens.
And you have the qualm to say you will not hesitate to arrest journalists and close down newspapers. Did you pay for their fees, the time they went to school?
In fact, you promised to send some journalists to school for further education. nd today, you haven't done that. Unfulfilled promises.
Unlike His Excellency the State President, Ngwazi Professor Bingu wa Mutharika.
Some misguided Malawians, because of the ignorance we have, and which you take advantage of to hoodwink us, are even calling you Professor Doctor. When will Malawians learn?
Now, let me tell you, Sir, that you have no powers to close down our newspapers- not even a muscle to do that. Because it is illegal.
Sometimes, your ill-advised advisers aremisguiding you- feeding you bluffy meals. One day you said Mr. Humphreys Mvula owned the Dispatch Newspaper, when he owned The Malawi Standard. And you said it in public. Without any regrets.
It is a sign of the mediocrity of some of the people we call Presidentail advisers. Actually, you choose them either because they are related to you; or they are political zealots from your party- the mighty Democratic Progressive Party.
Shame.
But you have no powers to close down newspapers and arrest journalists in this country. This is free Malawi. And we don't fear to fight for our rights.
We will not allow you to close down our newspapers. No. Not when I live.
You simply have no such powers. Zachimalawi has said. And this is more than a Presidentail Decree.
Hear this; hear this. You will not close the papers.
After all, you have tried to 'kill' some of the papers by freezing govenment adverts. And failed.
This threat is an acknowledgement of failure. Oh, yes! Failure. Failure to choke and kill our papers.
I now I willnot allow you to close down our newspapers. More so when you have no newspapers of your own, which I know would have been a failure.
You contributed nothing to these newspapers. In fact, you have them.
This is our country. We will defend it from impunity and dictatorship.
Yes, we will.
I suspect that you were sent by our donors to say this!
It is a reckless statement that will never be allowed to pass. No.
Not when Zachimalawi is here.
No.
You have no powers to close down our newspapers Sir; and such powers you will never have.
I rest my case.
I.
President Bingu wa Mutharika bullies Malawian newspapers
President Bingu wa Mutharika has warned newspapers against publishing what he termed 'outright fabrications', saying he will not hesitate to arrest journalists ad close down such newspapers.
Mutharika accused some Malawian newspapers of being 'sent' by donors, saying the donors 'can as well pack up and go'.
Mutharika, who is chairperson of the African Union, said even the United States government can allow tolerate 'lying newspapers' though the country claims to be the epitome of democracy.
"I will you down, I will close you down. Whatever others say, I don't care. This is my country," said a visibly angry Mutharika during the opening of Malawi's National Agriculture Fair in Blantyre.
Over 80 exhibitors are taking part, 32 of which are farmer groups. This year, the fair has also welcomed Zimbabwean exhibitors, signaling the fist time foreigners have participated at the largely local products event.
Mutharika's threat poses yet another challenge to press freedom. Already, his government has for the past six years frustrated the enactment of an influential freedom of information bill crucial to safeguarding media freedom.
Mutharika accused some Malawian newspapers of being 'sent' by donors, saying the donors 'can as well pack up and go'.
Mutharika, who is chairperson of the African Union, said even the United States government can allow tolerate 'lying newspapers' though the country claims to be the epitome of democracy.
"I will you down, I will close you down. Whatever others say, I don't care. This is my country," said a visibly angry Mutharika during the opening of Malawi's National Agriculture Fair in Blantyre.
Over 80 exhibitors are taking part, 32 of which are farmer groups. This year, the fair has also welcomed Zimbabwean exhibitors, signaling the fist time foreigners have participated at the largely local products event.
Mutharika's threat poses yet another challenge to press freedom. Already, his government has for the past six years frustrated the enactment of an influential freedom of information bill crucial to safeguarding media freedom.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)