Saturday, May 29, 2010

Malawi Pardons Gay Couple!

A couple of weeks ago I wrote about the gay couple who were being sentenced to 15 years in prison for getting married.  Well Malawi's laws have not changed, but pressure from the UN and other human rights groups has softened the heart of the President of Malawi, Bingu wa Mutharika.  The Mutharika said he was pardoning the couple for humanitarian reasons.  

This means they will be freed without repercussions, however local human rights groups in Africa are going to take them to a safe location fearing reprisals by citizens.

This is great news, though LGBT people in Malawi are criminals by definition, this move may show a step toward the 21st century and basic freedoms for all Malawi's people.  I applaud the president on his action and pray for the safety of Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza.

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