Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga The couple who made news across the world when they were jailed under Malawi's archaic laws against homosexuality have split, with one entering into a relationship with a woman. Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga were pardoned from their 14 year jail sentence for 'gross indecency and unnatural acts', following international outcry and UN intervention. The Guardian reports they have now broken up and Monjeza has a female partner. He reportedly says he no longer wants to be associated with homosexuality, apparently after pressure from his family. "I have had enough," he said. "I was forced into the whole drama and I regret the whole episode. I want to live a normal life ... not a life where I would be watched by everyone, booed and teased." Chimbalanga believes Monjeza has found a female lover "to hurt" him. "But I am not worried. You cannot force love, and nobody forced him when we did our symbolic wedding in December. I will also marry because there are lots of good men around. I will remain a gay," he told the Guardian. George Thindwa, director of a local human rights group, is blaming their separation on homophobic threats and abuse. "Monjeza was always a reluctant person in this partnership, but they managed to get the waters tested and they have seen the waters are rough." The campaigner says the case has 'opened a can of worms' in Malawi and it's now up to others to fight on for glbt rights.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Wednesday, 9th June 2010 - 1:02pm