Parliament swimmer speaks

Samolao
Samolao

While on social media he has been described as a ‘hero’ and ‘bosso’ who has pulled off the stunt of the year, on closer inspection the man dubbed the Parliament Swimmer is a man with a mental illness and is crying out for help.

His name is David Petagano Samolao (30). We met on the corner of Independence Avenue and Kaunda Road in Gaborone central. I recognised him from the Facebook pictures so I slowed down the car, rolled down the window and said,“Eita”. He excitedly greeted me back and opened the passenger’s door and got in the car before I even invited him in. I did not protest but asked him where he was going, offering to drop him off. He told me he was just “going” so I joined him and just drove off aimlessly.

“Kana monna ga gona ope yo o kileng a dira jalo” (no one ever did that) He blurted out, without being questioned, before switching to English, “I am the first Motswana to ever do that.”  Samolao was aware of his recent fame.

Editor's Comment
Ditlhopho di tsile: Vote wisely

This is a significant moment for our democracy, and it is crucial that every eligible voter takes part in shaping the future of our nation. This is a call to action for all the registered voters and stakeholders to ensure a smooth and informed electoral process.First and foremost, if you are a registered voter, now it is the time to get ready. Ensure that you have your voter registration card and identity card (Omang) in order. If you have...

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