05/20/26 11:48:00
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05/20 11:46 CDT Sorry, Arsenal fans, but a public holiday for you in Botswana
is fake news
Sorry, Arsenal fans, but a public holiday for you in Botswana is fake news
CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AP) --- Arsenal soccer fans in the southern African
country of Botswana thought they had another reason to rejoice: a public
holiday to celebrate their team's first Premier League title in 22 years.
Unfortunately for them, Botswana's government said a notice announcing they
could have the day off Wednesday in celebration was fake news.
The government posted the so-called official statement on X with the words
"FAKE" in red across it. The government posted: "No, there is no holiday for
Arsenal fans."
The fake statement circulating online --- complete with a Republic of Botswana
coat of arms and a stamp from the office of the president --- said President
Duma Boko had rewarded Arsenal fans for their "passion, loyalty and unwavering
support."
Eagle-eyed fans, however, might have noticed that the fake statement was dated
May 17: Sunday. Arsenal's triumph was only confirmed on Tuesday after nearest
rival Manchester City drew 1-1 with Bournemouth.
One X user speculated jokingly that the fake statement was issued by a
Manchester United fan.
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