Judge Approves Challenge to Madonna Adoption  11/30/06

Madonna's adoption of a baby David Banda can be legally challenged, a judge in Malawi ruled today (29NOV06).

A coalition of 67 human rights groups filed a petition after Madonna and husband Guy Ritchie were awarded 18-month interim custody and allowed to take one-year-old David out of the country.

Activists pointed out intra-country adoptions are not allowed in Malawi and argued the Malawian government "fast-tracked" the adoption. They want involvement in an assessment of Madonna's fitness as a mother.

At a court in the capital Lilongwe, Judge Andrew Nyirenda today (29NOV06) ruled that the groups can pursue an application for a full review of the custody order.

He said, "The applications from both applicants are accordingly granted and they are both joined as amicus curiae."