Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2003. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
South African Press Association (Johannesburg) - February 12, 2003
Mandela visited a TAC-run centre in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, in December, during which he was presented with a TAC T-shirt which he wore as a sign of solidarity with the organisation's call on government for treatment of HIV/Aids patients, the Nelson Mandela Foundation said in a statement.
A number of photographs were taken during the visit and the TAC asked the foundation for permission to use Mandela's image on future posters. Permission was granted to the TAC to use the picture for their advertising campaign.
"However, it was never anticipated that it would include the call for a march to Parliament on the day of the opening of Parliament," the foundation said.
"Although Mr Mandela supports the TAC in their call for treatment, the march is not endorsed by the Nelson Mandela Foundation or Mr Mandela personally.
"Mr Mandela has made it clear on countless occasions in the past that although he supports the call for treatment he would like to see government be allowed to conduct research, and once concluded, announce those findings before final decisions are taken in this regard.
"He also emphasised that the public should be allowed to have access to such treatment at own risk in the meantime." The foundation would not like to be seen opposing government on this issue.
"We would also like to see the TAC consulting us before using Mr Mandela's image as far as it concerns taking up their cause with government," the foundation said.
TAC chairman Zackie Achmat told Sapa the TAC had understood from the beginning that Mandela did not endorse the march, and had not asked him to do so as it knew this would be "inappropriate".
The poster concerned had been submitted to the foundation, which had "okayed" it.
It was clearly understood that Mandela's image would be used to reduce the stigma associated with HIV/Aids and to endorse treatment for patients, he said.
Friday's march was also not "against the government" but rather in support of a treatment plan, Achmat said.
In a statement later on Wednesday, the TAC said it "notes with regret the apparent misunderstanding" by the foundation that had arisen over the use of the photograph of Mandela wearing an "HIV-positive" T-shirt.
"Permission was sought and given for the use of the picture and the poster.
"The use of Mr Mandela's photograph is intended to reflect his often stated support for treatment. We believe that the use of this particular picture helps de-stigmatise HIV infection in our communities, and demonstrates his leadership and personal solidarity with people with HIV," it said.
The TAC had been honoured and privileged this year to be the first organization to win the Nelson Mandela Award for Health and Human Rights.
"We have the utmost respect for our former president and would do nothing to take advantage of his position in a manner that causes him embarrassment."
Friday's march was to "call on our government to implement a plan to keep the promises it made on April 17, 2002 regarding access to treatment and care for people with HIV/Aids", the TAC said.
030212
SA030203
Copyright © 2003 - South African Press Association. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the South African Press Association, Cotswold House, Greenacres Office Park, Cnr. Victory & Rustenburg Roads, VICTORY PARK, PO BOX 7766, JOHANNESBURG, 2000; Fax No: +27 11 782-1587/8, Tel No: +27 11 782-1600.
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Elton John AIDS Foundation, National Library of Medicine, and donations from users like you.
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2003. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Copyright ©1980, 2003. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .