On 26 December 2009, two Malawian men, Steven Monjeza (26) and Tiwonge Chimbalanga (20), were arrested allegedly for holding a traditional engagement ceremony (Chinkhoswe) in Blantyres township of Chirimba.
They have been charged with unnatural offences and indecent practices between males. If convicted, they face up to 14 years in prison with hard labour. The two men were beaten while in police custody.
Amnesty International considers both men prisoners of conscience, imprisoned solely for their perceived consensual same sex relationship, and has urged the Malawian authorities to immediately and unconditionally release the two men.
To find out more see http://www.amnesty.org.uk/actions_details.asp?ActionID=682
West Midlands Amnesty International UK 