Tuesday, 7 April 2009

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Madonna adoption appeal backed by Mercy's uncle

Peter Baneti was upset with court ruling

Madonna adopted David Banda in 2006

Madonna has received a boost in her bid to adopt Mercy James from Malawi – her family have pledged their support.

The singer was denied custody of the four-year-old at a hearing on Friday because she is not a resident of the African country.

Now Mercy’s uncle Peter Baneti, 41, says he’ll back Madonna, 50, in her appeal against the ruling.

‘We don't understand the judge's reasoning,’ he tells The Sunday Telegraph.

‘We as a family discussed this and agreed that it is in the best interests of Mercy to have her adopted, so why should the judge stop this if the family is okay with it?’

‘We are very disappointed. We hope that the Supreme Court will overturn her ruling.’

Madonna has now returned to London, so her sons Rocco, 8, and David Banda, 3, can see their dad Guy Ritchie, 40.

Meanwhile, a man has come forward claiming he is Mercy’s dad - James Kambewa says he thought she died at birth.

SEE PICTURES Madonna with Mercy James here>>

SEE PICTURES Madonna lands in Malawi>>

SEE VIDEO Madonna attends adoption hearing>>

SEE PICTURES Madonna and Guy Ritchie – a love story gone wrong>>

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