I can't propose a Romanian translation, but maybe I can help by explaining the sentence.
"With respect to AIDS, I am frankly mystified by

*the way politics has taken precedence over sound medical policy - on both sides* "

There are two opposing sides and both of these sides are more concerned about their side winning, their views prevailing, their policies being implemented, etc. (i.e. "politics") instead of just coming up with a good medical policy without regard to which side it comes from. This author is basically expressing the opinion that the issue of AIDS policy has become too politicized when really the best thing would be for everyone to sit down and talk and only be concerned about what would be a good medical policy.

"has taken precedence over" = has taken priority over = has become more important

"on both sides" = on both sides of the debate over AIDS policy
i.e. "politics" has become more important for both sides of the isse

here "politics" = maneuvering for control or power


...I hope that helps. Baftă!



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Note added at 53 mins (2006-08-17 15:38:42 GMT)
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edit: "issue" not isse

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Note added at 2 hrs (2006-08-17 17:29:52 GMT)
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Bogdanovich, yes, exactly! :)
şi pentru nimic!

(can't post up there in *notes to asker* yet)