World Notes Malawi

The pastoral letter read out in Catholic churches last month was direct. "In our society we are aware of a growing gap between rich and poor," it said. "Bribery and nepotism are growing." In Malawi, where President-for-Life Hastings Kamuzu Banda has ruled with an iron hand for 28 years, tolerating no dissent, congregations were rocked in their pews.

Banda hit back. The authors -- an Archbishop, five bishops and a monsignor -- were interrogated and reportedly placed under house arrest at the Archbishop's residence. Though free now, the clerics stay with friends at night for greater safety. Aid-donor countries are likely to ask for an explanation at a meeting next month.