"Sleeping rough in the streets was traumatic, especially when I realised that this was the result of a political decision that targeted the migrants," Soumahoro told Reuters. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com RegisterNow an Italian citizen, the 42-year-old has a unique opportunity to re-shape such decision-making -- from within parliament. "One thing I will try to do is make sure that no one ends up living in the streets like me. People need to be treated as human beings regardless of what passport they have," he said, speaking ahead of the Oct. 13 opening of parliament. He is reticent about his personal life, saying only that he has a young child and remains in touch with his family in Africa.

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