South Africa’s government human rights agency said Tuesday it is investigating whether the Zulu king made comments that could increase anti-homosexual sentiment in a country where gays face hatred and attacks despite liberal laws ensuring their rights. The Times, a Johannesburg newspaper, reported that King Goodwill Zwelithini called homosexuals “rotten” during a speech. Human Rights Commission spokesman Vincent Moaga said the newspaper stands by the story, but the king’s office said the king was mistranslated.

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