'Blocked again?'- Letsile Tebogo silence sparks controversy amid government escort away from press

©World Athletics

'Blocked again?'- Letsile Tebogo silence sparks controversy amid government escort away from press

Festus Chuma 12:27 - 09.11.2024

During Botswana's Presidential inauguration, sprint star Letsile Tebogo was escorted away from eager journalists, sparking controversy after recent social media deactivation and reappearance.

Botswana sprint sensation Letsile Tebogo chose to remain silent during the inauguration of Botswana's new president Duma Boko on Friday, a move that has sparked significant public and media interest.

Tebogo, who attended the high-profile event, was whisked away by a government official just as he appeared ready to address a group of eager journalists.

Tebogo, a celebrated athlete and a finalist for the 2024 World Athletics Athlete of the Year award, seemed poised to speak when he was interrupted.

"He is rushing somewhere, he will address you next time," a government official told journalists as she guided Tebogo away from the waiting press.

Despite his visual willingness to engage, Tebogo simply nodded and moved on, leaving the journalists and fans wondering about the reasons behind his brief disappearance from social media and subsequent silence at the event.

The mysterious deactivation and swift reactivation of Tebogo’s social media accounts have fueled speculations among fans and the media alike.

His management took down his accounts earlier in the week, only to reinstate them on Friday, raising questions about what might have prompted the temporary absence.

Some fans speculate it was a strategic move to allow Tebogo some respite from the intense public scrutiny ahead of the prestigious World Athletics Athlete of the Year awards where he stands as a strong contender.

The 21-year-old track star's recent accomplishments have turned him into a household name not only in Botswana but across the globe.

Tebogo’s 2024 season has been a landmark year for him, with his Olympic gold in the 200 meters, his pivotal role in securing a silver for Botswana in the 4x400-meter relay and his impressive five Diamond League victories.

The highlight, however, was his record-breaking performance in the 300 meters, an achievement that stunned the athletics world.

Tebogo’s efforts did not go unnoticed, as he was also named the best male athlete of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games by the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) on October 30.

President Duma Boko, who took his oath in front of thousands of citizens and international delegates in Botswana's capital, Gaborone, has expressed hope for a positive transition and encouraged support for his predecessor.

Boko’s inauguration was filled with symbolism, including his arrival in an open-top vehicle alongside soldiers on white horses. The ceremony marked a fresh start for the country and was widely celebrated by the people.

Meanwhile, Tebogo’s name is generating global excitement as he awaits the World Athletics Athlete of the Year award results, set to be announced on December 1.

He faces fierce competition from Norwegian distance running star Jakob Ingebrigtsen, but many believe Tebogo’s season has set him apart.

His achievements have ignited conversations among fans and experts with many seeing him as emblematic of a new era in track and field.