The Director of the IFP HIV/Aids Directorate, Dr O.S Baloyi, said the suggestion made by Health Minister, Dr Manto Tshabalala-Misimang, that Aids might be an opportunity provided by God for South Africans to care for its people was undoubtedly well intend, but misplaced.

Dr Baloyi said:

"The parable of the Good Samaritan teaches us that the Samaritan did not just express good intentions and holiness; he backed it up with practical action and resources."

"While the IFP welcomes the Minister's comments that the Aids pandemic provides an opportunity "for moral and spiritual growth", these sentiments should not shroud the fact that the Minister has resources, such as antiretroviral drugs, and a raft of public policy interventions at her disposal to remedy this disease."

"Some people may question the sincerity and conviction of the Health Minister's sentiments as the love and compassion - expressions and indivisible attributes of Godliness - alas seem to be found wanting in the approach the Minister has adopted.

"When 4.7 million South Africans, one in nine, have the virus, it is patently clear that the ABC policy has had a limited impact. Nothing less than the moral and spiritual renewal of society and targeted policy interventions by government will turn the tide of this unfolding tragedy."