Madonna's normal adoption

Sep 5, 2007, 11:29 GMT

Madonna holds her adopted son, David Banda, at an orphan care centre run by Raising Malawi, a grassroots initiative by Madonna, in Mphendula Village, about 40 km (25 miles) from the capital Lilongwe April 19, 2007. REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko

Madonna denies Malawi officials tried to extort money from her and insists she didn't use her "celebrity" to adopt.

The 'Hung Up' singer, who was granted temporary custody of 23-month-old David Banda last October, says she and her husband Guy Ritchie are "looking forward" to completing the adoption process soon.

Madonna's spokeswoman, Liz Rosenberg, said yesterday (04.09.07): "The plans to finalise the adoption of Madonna and Guy Ritchie's son David are proceeding as outlined almost a year ago - the day the Malawian government granted them their 'interim' adoption. There has been absolutely no interference with government officials or use of Madonna's 'celebrity' to speed up this adoption as reported.

"All appropriate legal requirements are being followed, including a home visit. Madonna and her entire family look forward to being granted the final adoption early next year - 18 months following the original interim adoption order."

Penstone Kilembe, who was due to assess Madonna and Guy's suitability to adopt David this month, stands accused of asking the singer to pay for his trip and has since been removed from the case.

Kilembe, director of Malawi's Child Welfare Services, denies any wrongdoing.

Simon Chisale, Malawi's chief social welfare officer, has confirmed Madonna's assessment has been delayed.

(C) BANG Media International