"The decision by the Malawian authorities to to split up jailed lovers, Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, is a cruel, malicious and vindictive attempt to cause the couple psychological distress and heartache.
"Steven has been transferred this week to Zomba prison, separating him from his partner, Tiwonge," reports London-based human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell of the LGBTI human rights group OutRage!, who has been assisting and supporting the couple since their arrest on homosexuality charges last December.
"Previously, the couple were jailed together in Chichiri prison, where Tiwonge remains. Although held in separate cells, in Chichiri they were able to see each other briefly from time to time.
"Now they will have no contact at all. This move will be particularly hard for Steven. Of the two, he is more vulnerable and stressed. Tiwonge, in contrast, is robust and resilient.
"I fear that this separation may have an adverse impact on Steven's mental and physical well-being. He was seriously ill for a month and is still not fully well. His isolation from Tiwonge is likely to be a severe blow to his morale. It could cause his health to relapse.
"Last weekend, just days after they were sentenced to 14 years hard labour on charges of homosexuality, reports from inside Chichiri prison said that both Tiwonge and Steven were cheerful and in good spirits. Despite their harsh sentence, they seemed unbowed and determined to carry on their fight for justice.
"Anecdotal reports suggest that most Malawians think the 14-year jail sentence is too harsh. Even many people who disagree with homosexuality seem to believe it is excessive and disproportionate. Some armed robbers, child sex abusers, rapists and killers get lighter sentences.
"Lawyers for Steven and Tiwonge say their appeal may be heard around the end of June. They suggest that Steven might be returned to Chichiri prison once the appeal process begins, which could be in about four weeks or so.
"The couple's lawyers are optimistic that on appeal to the higher courts the 14 year sentence will be reduced or annulled.
"I hope they are right but I am sceptical, given that the High Court refused to give Steven and Tiwonge bail and refused to rule that their prosecution was unconstitutional. My fear is that the appeal court may reduce the jail term but not revoke it," said Mr Tatchell.
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ACTION: Support Tiwonge and Steven in prison in Malawi
Four things you can do to support our heroes
Big thanks to everyone who has shown their concern and anger at the outrageous 14-year jail term handed down to Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga in Malawi.
These are four ways you can help:
