A Malawian gay couple arrested in December will not have their case heard in constitutional court, reports Reuters.
In January, the couple’s lawyers planned to challenge the arrest, arguing that it was “a violation of their rights to freedom of expression,
conscience and expression as enshrined in our republican constitution.”
On Feb 22, Malawi’s chief justice rejected the constitutional challenge. The trial will proceed at a lower court, and a verdict is expected on March 22, reports Reuters.
Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga held a symbolic engagement ceremony on Dec 26, and they were
arrrested soon after. The two men were
charged with “unnatural practices between males and gross public
indecency,” and they face up to 14 years in prison.
Related:
- Xtra reports from Uganda
- ’We only have two gays in Malawi’: authorities
- Malawi won’t back down on charges against gay couple
- Lawyers for gay Malawian men challenge ban on homosexuality
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