Madonna joy at Malawi gay couple release

Madonna has thanked fans for signing a petition which led to the release of a gay couple in Malawi.

The 51-year-old popstar had earlier slammed the "backward" decision by a Malawian court to sentence Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga to 14 years of hard labour for homosexuality.

However, after more than 30,000 people backed a campaign against the ruling, the pair were officially pardoned and released immediately.

In a post on her Raising Malawi website, Madonna said: "I have always believed love conquers all - yesterday I got to see it in action.

"With incredible joy, I am writing to share with you that Malawi President Bingu wa Mutharika has ordered their release. Steven and Tiwonge were freed on Saturday night. They have won their freedom and you have been a part of it.

"We celebrate this astounding turn of events with Steven, Tiwonge, and the countless Malawians fighting for their release. It is a historic day for Malawi."

However, the singer, who adopted children David and Mercy from the country, added: "Human rights injustices continue for so many Malawians facing poverty, disease, and a lack of critical resources.

"It is going to take the love and creativity of all of us to bring justice to the people of Malawi."