Madonna Adoption Raises Protests  10/14/06

Madonna's application to adopt a Malawian baby has prompted protests from children's and human rights group in the African nation.

Two organizations in Malawi are outraged by the government's decision to approve an interim adoption order for 13-month-old tot David Banda, whose father Yohame is still alive.

Madonna and husband Guy Richie flew out of Malawi without their new son yesterday (13OCT06) after spending 10 days in the country, because David is awaiting a passport.

Children's group Eye Of The Child's Boniface Mandere says, "It's not like selling property.

"This process is too short, applying on Tuesday, and yesterday the court gave the OK. I don't think that the High Court has any information about how Madonna is when it comes to child-rearing.

"We are concerned that the High Court has taken a short cut and waived the law. We are registering our concern and will seek clarification from the court, after which we will decide what action to take."

Mandere claims Malawian adoption law demands international adopters live in the country for a year and are regularly assessed by social workers before they can remove the child out of the country.

Human rights group Civil Liberties Committee are joining forces with Eye Of The Child to seek a court injunction to block the adoption.