The second British scientist on Mbeki's panel is in a very different class. He has also criticised Glaxo Wellcome, manufacturer of the anti-Aids medicine AZT, for not releasing data from trials with the drug. Herxheimer has come to the attention of Mbeki and his advisers. Many observers believe Mbeki is in denial. By rejecting any link between HIV and Aids, he can therefore avoid taking the necessary, extremely expensive actions.
Medical experts are outraged.
People are terrified. The influence of scientists such as Herxheimer, and other 'orthodox' panel members such as Scondras and the French scientist and co-discoverer of HIV, Luc Montagnier, will therefore be crucial in dissuading Mbeki from his current Aids policy, and in saving thousands of lives. It would also stem widespread criticism of Mbeki. What worries many intellectuals in South Africa is the manner in which Mbeki, after centralising political power in an expanded presidency, has isolated himself within a phalanx of 'yes men' and has shown himself intolerant of press criticism. Meanwhile, Aids continues to ravage his country.