80 world scientists want South African health minister fired
Between 600 and 800 South Africans die from AIDS every day, but scientists say the Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang should be fired over his handling of the problem. At the recent 16th International Aids Conference in Toronto, the Minister denied the link between HIV and AIDS. He has also been labelled ‘Dr Beetroot’ because he recommended people look to beetroot, lemons, garlic and African potato as AIDS treatments, rather than conventional drugs. This week, 80 international scientists have signed a petition calling for his resignation, including Nobel Peace Prize winner David Baltimore. South African President Thabo Mbeki is yet to respond. Andy Quan is the International Policy Officer at the Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations. The Wire’s Alex Parry asked him if the outrage was expected.