The leaders of the Inkatha Freedom Party youth brigade have had themselves tested for HIV/Aids at the party’s headquarters in Durban.
Chairperson Sibusisiwe Ngubane, secretary Lucky Mthethwa, treasurer Xolani Mbutho and national organiser Phumlani Khuzwayo were tested on Monday. Leaders from the Durban youth leadership were also tested.
Ngubane said afterwards that the results of the testing, done by a doctor, would be provided to the individuals involved “probably by next week”. Asked if the leaders would be making the results known she said this matter would be up to the individual.
The group said in a statement that it had taken “the bold step of having ourselves tested” in line with a resolution taken by the IFP youth brigade conference held in Ulundi at the end of August.
“We are giving effect to that resolution,” the group said.
“HIV/AIDS is affecting the youth of South Africa most of all. It is the greatest scourge ever to face our country, and while no cure exists, we believe passionately that knowledge is power.”
“In the case of anyone living with HIV/Aids, ignorance is the most deadly of enemies, because without knowing your status, you cannot regulate your behaviour accordingly.”
“It is important to know where you stand so that if the tests prove positive, you can receive the necessary anti-retroviral treatment which the KwaZulu-Natal government is rolling out, and which the national government will be doing shortly.”
“At the same time, the IFP youth brigade believes our actions might help rid the virus of the unfortunate and unnecessary stigma still surrounding it.” — I-Net Bridge