World's Worst Predictions - Famously Wrong Predictions
Theoretically, television may be feasible, but I consider it an impossibility--a development which we should waste little time dreaming about.
- Lee de Forest, 1926, inventor of the cathode ray tube
I think there is a world market for maybe five computers.
- Thomas J. Watson, 1943, Chairman of the Board of IBM
It doesn't matter what he does, he will never amount to anything.
- Albert Einstein's teacher to his father, 1895
It will be years - not in my time - before a woman will become Prime Minister.
- Margaret Thatcher, 1974
This 'telephone' has too many shortcomings to be seriously considered as a means of communication. The device is inherently of no value to us.
- Western Union internal memo, 1876
We don't like their sound, and guitar music is on the way out.
- Decca Recording Co. rejecting the Beatles, 1962
Who the hell wants to hear actors talk?
- H. M. Warner, Warner Brothers, 1927
640K ought to be enough for anybody.
- Bill Gates, 1981
Louis Pasteur's theory of germs is ridiculous fiction.
- Pierre Pachet, Professor of Physiology at Toulouse, 1872
Computers in the future may weigh no more than 1.5 tons.
- Popular Mechanics, forecasting the relentless march of science, 1949
We don't need you. You haven't got through college yet.
- Hewlett-Packard's rejection of Steve Jobs, who went on to found Apple Computers
King George II said in 1773 that the American colonies had little stomach for revolution.
An official of the White Star Line, speaking of the firm's newly built flagship, the Titanic, launched in 1912, declared that the ship was unsinkable.
In 1939 The New York Times said the problem of TV was that people had to glue their eyes to a screen, and that the average American wouldn't have time for it.
An English astronomy professor said in the early 19th century that air travel at high speed would be impossible because passengers would suffocate.
Airplanes are interesting toys, but they have no military value.
- Marshal Ferdinand Foch in 1911
With over 50 foreign cars already on sale here, the Japanese auto industry isn't likely to carve out a big slice of the U.S. market.
- Business Week, 1958
Whatever happens, the U.S. Navy is not going to be caught napping.
- Frank Knox, U.S. Secretary of the Navy, on December 4, 1941
Stocks have reached what looks like a permanently high plateau.
- Irving Fisher, Professor of Economics, Yale University, October 16, 1929.
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Thursday, September 9, 2010
Iceland Prime Minister Rebuffed for being gay!
An MP from the Faroe Islands has refused to attend a state banquet held in honour of Icelandic prime minister Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir's official visit.
The prime minister of the Faroe Islands, Kaj Leo Johannesen, invited all seven of the Faroe Island's party leaders to dine with Ms Sigurðardóttir and her wife, Jonina Leonsdottir. However, Jenis av Rana MP, leader of The Centre Party, a Christianity-based conservative party, declined the invitation, reportedly saying it was against his religion and that he wouldn't "dream of attending such a banquet".
In a statement on his party's website, Mr av Rana wrote: "Logmadur [prime minister] has sent all party leaders an invitation to dine with Iceland's prime minister and her female partner . . . The Centre party will not be represented at the dinner.
"I do not make a habit of going out in the evening unless my wife is also invited. I would much rather stay at home with her. This is not new behaviour, it's been like this for years. No one should be surprised."
He also added that he considered the couple's visit to be a direct provocation to the beliefs of Faroese society.
The incident has sparked controversy in both Iceland and the Faroe Islands. Ossur Skarpheðinsson, Iceland's foreign minister, publicly condemned Mr av Rana's comments as "disgraceful".
The Chairman of the Faroese Republican party, Hogny Hoydal, along with PM Johanneson, stated that Mr av Rana's views did not represent those of the whole Faroese nation.
The Faroe Islands – an autonomous constituent country within the Kingdom of Denmark – and Iceland have a long-standing cultural relationship, sharing an near-identical language and remarkably similar history.
However, this is not the first time the relationship between the two countries has hit rocky ground: back in 2006, Icelandic MP for Social Democratic Alliance, Rannveig Gudmundsdottir, criticised Faroese parliament for rejecting proposals designed to offer protection against discrimination on the basis of sexuality.
The case received widespread publicity in the Scandinavian press and is today widely credited for the special protections against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation which are now enshrined in Faroese law.
On his blog, Faroese Christian writer Arni Zachariassen wrote an open letter of apology to PM Sigurðardóttir saying he felt the situation was "saddening and embarrassing".
Mr Zachariassen wrote: "I know that I speak for the majority of Faroese Christians when I say that you are more than welcome to visit our country and if the occasion arose, you and your wife both would be more than welcome to eat at our tables."
The prime minister of the Faroe Islands, Kaj Leo Johannesen, invited all seven of the Faroe Island's party leaders to dine with Ms Sigurðardóttir and her wife, Jonina Leonsdottir. However, Jenis av Rana MP, leader of The Centre Party, a Christianity-based conservative party, declined the invitation, reportedly saying it was against his religion and that he wouldn't "dream of attending such a banquet".
In a statement on his party's website, Mr av Rana wrote: "Logmadur [prime minister] has sent all party leaders an invitation to dine with Iceland's prime minister and her female partner . . . The Centre party will not be represented at the dinner.
"I do not make a habit of going out in the evening unless my wife is also invited. I would much rather stay at home with her. This is not new behaviour, it's been like this for years. No one should be surprised."
He also added that he considered the couple's visit to be a direct provocation to the beliefs of Faroese society.
The incident has sparked controversy in both Iceland and the Faroe Islands. Ossur Skarpheðinsson, Iceland's foreign minister, publicly condemned Mr av Rana's comments as "disgraceful".
The Chairman of the Faroese Republican party, Hogny Hoydal, along with PM Johanneson, stated that Mr av Rana's views did not represent those of the whole Faroese nation.
The Faroe Islands – an autonomous constituent country within the Kingdom of Denmark – and Iceland have a long-standing cultural relationship, sharing an near-identical language and remarkably similar history.
However, this is not the first time the relationship between the two countries has hit rocky ground: back in 2006, Icelandic MP for Social Democratic Alliance, Rannveig Gudmundsdottir, criticised Faroese parliament for rejecting proposals designed to offer protection against discrimination on the basis of sexuality.
The case received widespread publicity in the Scandinavian press and is today widely credited for the special protections against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation which are now enshrined in Faroese law.
On his blog, Faroese Christian writer Arni Zachariassen wrote an open letter of apology to PM Sigurðardóttir saying he felt the situation was "saddening and embarrassing".
Mr Zachariassen wrote: "I know that I speak for the majority of Faroese Christians when I say that you are more than welcome to visit our country and if the occasion arose, you and your wife both would be more than welcome to eat at our tables."
Church of Scotland condemns imprisonment of Malawian gay couple
Reverend Ian Galloway, convener of the Kirk's Church and Society council, has condemned the jailing of a Malawian gay couple as "unjust".
Townge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza were sentenced to 14 years in prison with hard labour last Thursday after being arrested on 28 December 2009 for their 'symbolic' wedding.
Reverend Galloway said: "These men have harmed no-one. They are a danger to no-one and should not be in prison."
The Kirk is currently struggling to reach an agreement over the subject of ordaining openly gay ministers after last year's appointment of Scott Rennie to Queen's Cross, an issue which split the Church. The General Assembly, the Church of Scotland's annual supreme court meeting, is currently being held at The Mound in Edinburgh, where Reverend Galloway said he hoped they would unite over the Malawi case.
Townge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza were sentenced to 14 years in prison with hard labour last Thursday after being arrested on 28 December 2009 for their 'symbolic' wedding.
Reverend Galloway said: "These men have harmed no-one. They are a danger to no-one and should not be in prison."
The Kirk is currently struggling to reach an agreement over the subject of ordaining openly gay ministers after last year's appointment of Scott Rennie to Queen's Cross, an issue which split the Church. The General Assembly, the Church of Scotland's annual supreme court meeting, is currently being held at The Mound in Edinburgh, where Reverend Galloway said he hoped they would unite over the Malawi case.
Exclusive: Alan Duncan writes 'Malawi gay conviction is shocking – but we cannot stop aid'
The conviction of two men in Malawi for exercising their basic right to express their sexuality as they wish is both shocking and disturbing.
Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza face 14 years in jail simply because they have come out in a country which views homosexuality as a crime.
The government of Malawi has signed up to international treaties on human rights. Indeed the country’s constitution explicitly prohibits discrimination against any of its citizens.
It is a fundamental tenet of my beliefs – and those of the UK government – that those basic human rights should apply to everyone regardless of their sexual orientation.
Human rights underpin our relationship with Malawi as with many other countries. But we must be wary of calls to use aid money as a political weapon.
Malawi is one of the poorest countries in the world. Around 40 per cent of its 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.
But that does not mean we will sit idly by. The UK has clearly demonstrated its commitment to promoting basic rights in Malawi through programmes which aim to end violence against women, to deliver fair access to HIV treatment and to encourage better parliamentary scrutiny to allow the people to hold their Government to account.
We, along with our major international partners, will make urgent representations to the government of Malawi to review its laws to ensure that it meets its commitments to human rights.
And we will have this unjust and harsh conviction at the forefront of our minds when we negotiate the way we deliver our aid in future.
We cannot and will not let down the poor of Malawi – for too many of them international aid is a matter of life or death – but we do expect their government to face up to its international and domestic obligations.
Malawi has made significant progress in the field of human rights in recent years but this case shows it still has a long way to go to match words with deeds.
Alan Duncan MP is the minister for international development
Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza face 14 years in jail simply because they have come out in a country which views homosexuality as a crime.
The government of Malawi has signed up to international treaties on human rights. Indeed the country’s constitution explicitly prohibits discrimination against any of its citizens.
It is a fundamental tenet of my beliefs – and those of the UK government – that those basic human rights should apply to everyone regardless of their sexual orientation.
Human rights underpin our relationship with Malawi as with many other countries. But we must be wary of calls to use aid money as a political weapon.
Malawi is one of the poorest countries in the world. Around 40 per cent of its 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.
But that does not mean we will sit idly by. The UK has clearly demonstrated its commitment to promoting basic rights in Malawi through programmes which aim to end violence against women, to deliver fair access to HIV treatment and to encourage better parliamentary scrutiny to allow the people to hold their Government to account.
We, along with our major international partners, will make urgent representations to the government of Malawi to review its laws to ensure that it meets its commitments to human rights.
And we will have this unjust and harsh conviction at the forefront of our minds when we negotiate the way we deliver our aid in future.
We cannot and will not let down the poor of Malawi – for too many of them international aid is a matter of life or death – but we do expect their government to face up to its international and domestic obligations.
Malawi has made significant progress in the field of human rights in recent years but this case shows it still has a long way to go to match words with deeds.
Alan Duncan MP is the minister for international development
Castrating gays!
All homosexuals should be castrated.
Evangelist Billy Graham, a statement for which he later apologized.
Evangelist Billy Graham, a statement for which he later apologized.
Castrating gays!
All homosexuals should be castrated.
Evangelist Billy Graham, a statement for which he later apologized.
Evangelist Billy Graham, a statement for which he later apologized.
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.
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.
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