This scenario represents a complete lack of recognition of judicial authority and relegates it to an ineffective and powerless institution. Thabo Mbeki, the former South African president, is a prime example of denying the judiciary its legitimate powers. In 2002, Mbeki denied thousands of pregnant women in the country access to antiretroviral drugs to help treat their HIV. The court strongly declared his actions unconstitutional and demanded that he give vulnerable women access to life-saving drugs. Through a series of “delays” and “technical mishaps,” Mbeki continued for years to prevent access to medicines, strictly based on his personal principles. A justice system cannot function when its actions are completely ignored, and Mbeki has shown great disrespect to his country's government.