Malawi gay couple sentenced

A judge in Malawi has imposed a maximum sentence of 14 years in prison with hard labour, on a gay couple convicted of gross indecency and unnatural acts.



The judge says he wanted to protect the public from homosexuals.



Twenty-six-year-old Steven Monjeza, and 20-year-old Tiwonge Chimbalanga, have been in jail since they were arrested in December, after holding an engagement ceremony.



The case has sparked international condemnation and a debate about homosexuality in the country.



The British government, Malawi\'s largest donor, has expressed dismay at the sentences, but has not withdrawn aid.