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By Goli Innocent
Billionaire Bill Gates has publicly apologised to the staff of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for his past interactions with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, calling it a “huge mistake to spend time with him.”
The apology came during a town hall meeting with foundation staff on Tuesday, according to the Wall Street Journal.
Gates acknowledged that he first met Epstein in 2011 but admitted he failed to properly investigate the financier, who had previously pleaded guilty to soliciting a minor for prostitution.
He continued to meet Epstein through 2014, including international trips, but insisted he “never stayed overnight” or visited Epstein’s private island.
In addition, Gates admitted to two extramarital affairs, clarifying that these were entirely separate from Epstein’s criminal activities.
“One of the women was a Russian bridge player who met me at bridge events, and the other a Russian nuclear physicist,” he said.
“I apologise to other people who are drawn into this because of the mistake that I made.”
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He also expressed regret for involving foundation executives in meetings with Epstein, including dinners, phone calls, and discussions about philanthropy.
“It was a huge error to involve others in meetings with him. I should have been more careful, and I take full responsibility,” Gates told staff.
The disclosures follow the release of US Department of Justice documents detailing Gates’ communications with Epstein.
Among them is an email in which Epstein claimed Gates had contracted a sexually transmitted infection and requested antibiotics to covertly give to his then-wife, Melinda, an allegation Gates has denied.
Melinda Gates described the revelations as resurfacing “painful times” in their marriage but added that she is “so happy to be away from all the muck.”
Gates stressed that none of his interactions with Epstein or the admitted affairs involved criminal conduct.
He expressed deep regret for any harm caused and vowed to rebuild trust within the foundation, emphasising his commitment to its mission and staff.
