For immediate release 12 February 2002 The Treatment Action Campaign notes with regret the apparent misunderstanding by the Nelson Mandela Foundation that has arisen over the use of a photograph of former President Nelson Mandela wearing an 'HIV-positive' T-shirt, on a poster that is being used to advertise TAC's march to Parliament on February 14th 2003. We would like to explain the following: 1. Permission was sought and given for the use of the picture and the poster. 2. TAC's march to Parliament on February 14th is not an anti-government march.* *It is a march to demonstrate the strength of feeling that exists in our society to work with government to prevent and treat HIV infections. It is a march to call on our Government to implement a plan to keep the promises it made on April 17th 2002 regarding access to treatment and care for people with HIV/AIDS. 3. 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 pictures helps de-stigmatise HIV infection in our communities, and demonstrates his leadership and personal solidarity with people with HIV. 4. TAC has 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. ENDS