Madonna Releases Statement on Malawi Couple

Superstar entertainer Madonna, who has adopted two children from Malawi and is building a school there, has released a statement on the pardoning of Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga. She also asks for people to share their reactions on her RaisingMalawai website. Her complete statement reads:


Dear Friend,

I have always believed love conquers all -- yesterday I got to see it in action.

In the last week over 30,000 of you added your name to mine calling for the release of Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga -- the Malawi couple sentenced to 14 years hard labor for the "crime" of homosexuality.

With incredible joy, I am writing to share with you that Malawi President Bingu wa Mutharika has ordered their release. Steven and Tiwonge were freed on Saturday night. They have won their freedom and you have been a part of it.

I would love to hear your reaction to this news. Share your thoughts now:

raisingmalawi.org/lovewins

We celebrate this astounding turn of events with Steven, Tiwonge, and the countless Malawians fighting for their release. It is a historic day for Malawi.

Though they are free from prison, sadly their safety and future in Malawi is still unknown. I hope this is just the beginning of our work together.

Human rights injustices continue for so many Malawians facing poverty, disease, and a lack of critical resources. There are still over two million orphans and vulnerable children who need to experience love's embrace.

It is going to take the love and creativity of all of us to bring justice to the people of Malawi.

That's why I would like to hear from you. Tell me your thoughts on this important day in Malawi:

raisingmalawi.org/lovewins

Thank you for joining me in Raising Malawi.

With great love,
Madonna