President Bingu of Malawi has pardoned the couple, Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, who were recently senenced to 14 years hard labour on charges of homosexuality.

Human rights advocates have condemned as "cruel and vindictive" the the decision by the Malawian authorities to to split up jailed couple Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga.

Love is no crime, the Rev Sharon Ferguson, CEO of the Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement has said in response to a "horrific" 14-year prison term for a gay couple.

A Malawian court has triggered outrage after convicting a same-sex couple of a criminal offence for going through a traditional engagement ceremony.