South African Criticism of HIV/AIDS Dissidents Grows

Previously rare criticism of South Africa's HIV/AIDS policy from within the ruling ANC political party is growing, with two veteran legislators the latest to voice opposition to controversial vitamin-based therapies. The dispute has intensified amid reports that government antiretroviral treatment schemes are failing to meet targets.

Much of the current debate surrounds the Rath Health Foundation, a vitamin supplements maker currently engaged in a legal battle with HIV/AIDS lobby group the Treatment Action Campaign (TAC). The Rath Foundation has labelled the TAC as a "front organisation" for the pharmaceutical industry.

The legal case focuses on claims that the TAC received funding from drug firms. For the time being, government officials who have previously questioned the efficacy and safety of conventional antiretroviral medicines appear to have toned down their opposition.