By now, I’m sure you know that yesterday Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza were sentenced to a maximum of 14 years of hard labor for being in love. The couple, who were arrested following their engagement party are charged with unnatural acts and gross indecency. Their punishment was given the maximum sentence, which is reserved for “the worst crimes.” Though not surprising, this sort of intolerance toward homosexuals is not uncommon in Africa, even in the more westernized countries. This sentencing sets a bad precedent.
While the White House, Amnesty International, the United Nations and and celebrities like Madonna have condemned the ruling, these words will most likely have no effect. However, the threat of withdrawing funding from Malawi could help this cause. Currently 40% of Malawi’s budget comes from foreign aid. Even this is unlikely as even in America, there are still many hate committed against our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters and many laws barring them from basic rights (hello gay marriage).
There are currently two separate petitions online calling for the release of these two men, you can sign them here and here.
peace,
e.
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Wow. I’ve been out of the loop. This is the first I’m hearing of this…smh.