Pretoria, South Africa, Feb 11, 2010 / 16:31 pm
Following revelations that South Africa President Jacob Zuma fathered a child out of wedlock, the Catholic bishops of the country have expressed the “strongest concern” at scandalous behavior among national leaders. The bishops called on leaders to be role models and warned that their immorality has hindered the fight against HIV/AIDS.
In a Feb. 3 statement, President Zuma confirmed his relationship and his child by a woman who was not one of his wives. He said he had taken “personal responsibility” in the matter by acknowledging paternity. He also accused media coverage of profiteering and of violating laws that protect children from media exposure.
“The media is also in essence questioning the right of the child to exist and fundamentally, her right to life,” he charged, according to South Africa’s Times.
Zuma, a polygamist in marriages with several women, said it was “mischievous” to argue he has undermined government efforts against HIV and AIDS.