Health minister slams the media

Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang has slammed the media over its reporting of the Jacob Zuma rape trial. She says people should not be misled by what was reported on issues related to HIV and AIDS during the former deputy president’s trial. Earlier this week, Zuma was found not guilty of raping a 31-year-old HIV positive woman. Addressing the media in Pretoria, Tshabalala-Msimang said it was regrettable that the media, despite knowing about Government’s Comprehensive Plan on HIV and Aids, did not highlight it in order to reduce what she termed confusion that emerged in court. She says the media has a responsibility to assist Government in the public education of HIV and Aids issues.

Meanwhile, Tshabalala-Msimang says the UN is to review progress made by countries regarding the fight against HIV and Aids during a special session at the end of the month. South Africa has presented its report to UN Secretary General Kofi Annan for consideration. South Africa’s delegation to the session will consist of cabinet ministers and 14 NGOs, including the National Association of People Living with HIV and Aids.