Malawi Prisoner in Gay Case May Be Dying
Being in prison anywhere is not a picnic. Being imprisoned in an impoverished nation like Malawi can be a death sentence.
Such may be the final fate of Steven Monjeza. Peter Tatchell, Britain's most prominent gay-rights activist, is reporting that Monjeza is vomiting, coughing, and suffering pain and pressure in his chest. His eyes are jaundiced. He is thin, weak and has no energy.
Monjeza came to international attention when he was imprisoned, along with Tiwonge Chimbalanga. The two men, 26 and 20, dared to celebrate an "engagement ceremoney" and be open about their affection for each other. As reported here, the Central African nation has anti-gay laws on its books. Although sporadically enforced, the two men attracted the attention of authorities and were arrested.
The case has attracted protests in London and elsewhere. Religious and political leaders have expressed concern. But now, the case is taking on an even more serious tone, with reports from observers that Monjeza is weakening daily.
"At first sight, some of Steven's symptoms seem like flu," Tatchell reported. "But the prison authorities have discounted this possibility. They suspected that he had TB. Steven was sent for tests. But the TB tests have come back negative. The prison authorities would not have sent him to be tested for TB if his symptoms corresponded to flu. Prison officials are unable to determine Steven's illness. Although they are unsure, they are not doing further medical tests. Even if Steven had only bronchitis or pleurisy, we should be concerned. These can develop into pneumonia, which can sometimes be fatal."
Monjeza receives two meals day, always the same: porridge with beans. The two men's families could send food, but they have abandoned them. The prison is regarded as crowded and substandard even by African standards.
Malawi was in the news when Madonna adopted children from the nation and started an orphanage.