27 Jun 2023

Batswana’s culture of consoling each other during trying times is rooted in the tradition of showing empathy, says President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi.

In consoling the Brooks family during his visit to their house in Gaborone on June 27 , President Masisi said they were mourning the passing on of a family member and needed support to pull through the difficult situation.

The Brooks family is mourning the death of Ms Kgalalelo Brooks, wife to Member of Parliament for Kgalagadi South Mr Sam Brooks.

He said even though losing someone was a difficult occasion that one had to face in life, it was something that was beyond the family’s control.

“It is our culture, that during trying times we come together and console each other. The Brooks family requires our support,” he said

He also appealed to the Brooks family to trust and find comfort in the Lord.

President Masisi advised MP Brooks to gather his strength and devote his energy to guiding and growing their children.

“God will guide your way despite the pain that you have suffered.

Be consoled, be strong and do not fear, we shall support, guide and bless your path,” he said.

President Masisi said MP Brooks had been updating him on the health of his wife.

He said though at one point, she was said to be recovering well, it was unfortunate that she had passed on.

He said it was God’s will that one had to live and there shall come a time when they depart from earth.

A family representative and elder sister to Mr Brooks, Ms Linah Mahalelo said the deceased was admitted at Gaborone Private Hospital on May 18 and had a successful surgery on May 20.

She was later transferred to Princess Marina Hospital on June 5, where she was recovering well and at one point able to communicate with the family. Her sickness worsened on June 21 as her blood pressure was said to be lowering and ultimately passed on the following day June 22.

Ms Mahalelo appreciated the support and guidance the nation was receiving from President Masisi.

“You have proved to the nation that you are not only a leader, but a parent and a guide. You have taught us that we must always come together, unite and console each other during times of difficulty or when one was grieving, not only as family members or with those we are closest to but as a nation. Continue to unite the nation,” she said.

Meanwhile, the deceased uncle-in-law Mr Boiki Mmereki appreciated the support from President Masisi, relatives, friends and the nation.

“As your children, your support will give us strength. God will also give us strength,” Mr Mmereki said.

Ms Brooks will be buried on Saturday at Maubelo village, Logaganeng ward in `kgalagadi.

She is survived by her husband and two children. At the time of her death, Ms Brooks was employed as Principal Economic Officer 1 at Gaborone City Council. ENDS