African Lawmaker Calls for 'Branding' HIV Sufferers

Swaziland MP slammed for suggesting compulsory testing, warning logos

By Rob Quinn, Newser Staff

Posted May 26, 2009 4:31 AM CDT

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African Lawmaker Calls for 'Branding' HIV Sufferers — Model Christy Turlington is seen at an HIV support group, Hope Heals, in Swaziland where 43% of the country's people are believed to be HIV positive. (AP Photo/RED)

A member of Swaziland's parliament has come under fire for suggesting making HIV tests compulsory and branding warning logos on the buttocks of those with the disease, the Telegraph reports. "Before having sex with anyone, people will have to check their partners' buttocks before proceeding," he explained. Health campaigners in the country—where the HIV infection rate, at 43%, is the highest in the world—accused the lawmaker of disregarding human rights.

"How can a legislator lobby for the branding of HIV positive people?" asked one health campaigner. "We do not need legislators who think like him." (More Africa stories.)

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