Polygamous South African President Jacob Zuma has apologized for fathering his 20th child with a woman who is not one of his three wives. Many health activists are arguing that the 67-year-old is setting bad example, given that South Africa has one of the world’s highest rates of HIV and AIDS. –JCL

The Guardian:

Jacob Zuma, the polygamous president of South Africa, has apologised for fathering his 20th child with a woman who is not one of his three wives.

Sexual health activists have criticised Zuma for having sex with the daughter of a friend who is one of the principal organisers of this year’s World Cup, contending his behaviour sets a bad example in a country with one of the world’s highest rates of HIV and Aids, the Reuters news agency reported.

Senior ANC officials are also furious with the president for embarrassing the party and breaking a pledge he made after being elected party leader in 2007 “not to embarrass the ANC with other sexual revelations”, according to South Africa’s Star newspaper.

Read more

Dig, Root, Grow

This year, we’re all on shaky ground, and the need for independent journalism has never been greater. A new administration is openly attacking free press — and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Your support is more than a donation. It helps us dig deeper into hidden truths, root out corruption and misinformation, and grow an informed, resilient community.

Independent journalism like Truthdig doesn't just report the news — it helps cultivate a better future.

Your tax-deductible gift powers fearless reporting and uncompromising analysis. Together, we can protect democracy and expose the stories that must be told.

This spring, stand with our journalists.

Dig. Root. Grow. Cultivate a better future.

Donate today.

SUPPORT TRUTHDIG