Madonna Failed Adoption

A judge in Malawi showed no mercy towards Madonna. The Material Girl, trying to adopt a second child from the impoverished African nation, was rejected in her bid to bring home an orphaned 3-year-old girl.If Madonna wants to add Chifundo "Mercy" James to her brood, she needs to establish roots in the African nation, the judge ruled in rebuking the international superstar.Under Malawi law, non-residents can't adopt local children unless they live in the country for at least 18 months - a requirement waived once before for the platinum-selling singer."A person is not entitled to claim to be a resident at a given town simply because he pays a short, temporary visit," said Judge Esmie Chombo, who vetoed the adoption."Some expectation of continuity is a vital factor, which turns simple occupation into continuity."A court waived the rule in 2006 when Madonna was able to take her son David out of the country before finalizing the adoption. Critics charged the Material Mom received special treatment.Madonna, 50, who has homes in London and New York, was eager to adopt the toddler whose mother died at age 14. Court papers show the 3-year-old girl's uncle consented to the adoption.Madonna, in papers unsealed Friday, said she hoped to spare the girl a life of "hardship and emotional trauma.""I am able and willing to securely provide for Chifundo James and make her a permanent and established member of my family," she said.She can appeal the judge's decision to Malawi Supreme Court.News of her attempts to adopt Mercy sparked worldwide debate. Some argued that the girl should be cared for by her extended family. Others praised Madonna, saying the girl would enjoy a better life with the pop star.Government officials endorsed the adoption as recently as Thursday, one day before Chombo's ruling.Madonna filmed a documentary in Malawi in 2006, detailing the crippling AIDS crisis and poverty there. This time she made the trip with daughter Lourdes, 12, and son Rocco, 8. She also brought along 3-year-old David, who saw his biological father for the first time since the boy left Africa three years ago.