Madonna Adoption Plan Denied

Malawi officials denied April 3 Madonna’s petition to adopt a second child from their country, saying bending the rules that require prospective parents to live in the country for a period of time could possibly lead to child trafficking.

Judge Esme Chombo’s ruling went along with critics who say exceptions shouldn’t be made for Madonna to adopt 3-year-old Chifundo “Mercy” James even though she’s set up a major development project for the AIDS-stricken African country.

“It is necessary that we look beyond the petitioner … and consider the consequences of opening the doors a little too wide,” Chombo said. “By removing the very safeguard that is supposed to protect our children, the courts … could actually facilitate trafficking of children by some unscrupulous individuals.”

The Human Rights Consultative Committee had reportedly questioned Madonna’s adoption attempts, saying children should be taken care of by their own families and that adoption should be a last resort.

However, Madonna reportedly said in an affidavit that the little girl’s grandmother is unable to care for the child.

“I am able and willing to securely provide for Chifundo James and make her a permanent and established member of my family,” the affidavit said. “To deny Chifundo James the opportunity to be adopted by me could expose her to hardship and emotional trauma which is otherwise avoidable.”

The superstar’s lawyer, Alan Chinula, said his client will appeal the decision to the Malawi Supreme Court.