Botswana government forced to debunk viral public holiday prank after Arsenal title win

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FT Desk

The Botswana government has had to officially deny reports that the country would set a bank holiday for Wednesday, 20th May, after Arsenal won the Premier League.

The Gunners were crowned champions on Tuesday without kicking a ball, as Manchester City could only manage a 1-1 draw against Bournemouth in the penultimate round of the season.

Mikel Arteta's men are now four points ahead of City with just one game remaining and will be presented with the Premier League trophy this coming Sunday.

There are plenty of Arsenal fans in Botswana and some pranksters conspired to get a day off from work by spreading a document online which said the following:

"PUBLIC HOLIDAY FOR ARSENAL FANS:

"CELEBRATING ARSENAL'S PREMIER LEAGUE TRIUMPH

"GABORONE, 17* May 2026: His Excellency President Duma Gideon Boko, President of the Republic of Botswana, has conveyed warm congratulations to Arsenal Football Club and their supporters worldwide for their outstanding achievement in winning the Premier League title for the 2025/2026 season.

𝗡𝗢, 𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘 𝗜𝗦 𝗡𝗢 𝗛𝗢𝗟𝗜𝗗𝗔𝗬 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗔𝗥𝗦𝗘𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗙𝗔𝗡𝗦. pic.twitter.com/xuc9JA8oPd

— Botswana Government (@BWGovernment) May 20, 2026

"In recognition of the passion, layalty, and unwavering support of Arsenal fans across Botswana, who contribute areani cy meaningful economic opportunities, and economy, the President has approved a special measure to allow fans to fully celebrate this historic victory.

"Accordingly, all Arsenal supporters in Botswana are hereby encouraged to take Wednesday, 20th May 2026, off from work to celebrate Arsenal's well-deserved Premier League triumph.

"Heads of Public and Private Institutions are urged to grant Arsenal fans the day off with full understanding and support. Employers are further encouraged to foster a spirit of unity and celebration in appreciation of the positive energy and dedication that football brings to our nation.

"The Government of Botswana joins Arsenal fans in celebrating this remarkable milestone and wishes the team continued success in the seasons ahead.

"Let us celebrate responsibly and with pride.

"His Excellency President Duma Gideon Boko will continue to promote initiatives that harmoise and support the well-being and happiness of all Batswana."

The spelling errors throughout proved to be a dead giveaway that this was not an official document.

As such, the Botswana government's official X handle posted a response saying "𝗡𝗢, 𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘 𝗜𝗦 𝗡𝗢 𝗛𝗢𝗟𝗜𝗗𝗔𝗬 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗔𝗥𝗦𝗘𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗙𝗔𝗡𝗦" as well as a picture of the document with "FAKE" written across the front.