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Influencer sentenced for hate speech against Zambian president
A Zambian-American social media personality has been handed an 18-month prison term for making derogatory remarks about President Hakainde Hichilema, sparking debate over free speech in Zambia.
Arrest and guilty plea
Ethel Chisono Edwards, 42, was detained three months ago at Lusaka's Kenneth Kaunda International Airport upon arriving for her grandmother's funeral. Known online as "One Boss Lady," she has built a large following through political commentary critical of Hichilema's administration.
Edwards, a New York-based real estate agent with dual citizenship, pleaded guilty in a Lusaka magistrate's court. She admitted to violating the Cyber Security Act and Cyber Crimes Act-legislation enacted earlier this year-by using digital platforms to spread offensive statements driven by hatred.
Court's ruling and mitigation
Magistrate Webster Milumbe emphasized the need to deter hate speech, which he described as increasingly prevalent. Despite Edwards's apology, he imposed an 18-month sentence, backdated to her arrest.
Defense lawyer Joseph Katati argued for leniency, portraying his client as a remorseful first-time offender who supports a Zambian girls' football team and provides for her family. Katati read a public apology on her behalf, expressing regret to Hichilema, his family, and the nation.
"I want to unreservedly apologise to the president, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, his family, and the nation of Zambia for the words that I uttered and the negative effects they may have caused."
Ethel Chisono Edwards, via her lawyer
Public reaction and legal context
The case has polarized Zambians, with some viewing the sentence as a necessary deterrent and others criticizing it as an infringement on free expression. While Hichilema abolished criminal defamation laws targeting the presidency in 2021, other statutes remain in force.
In September, two men received two-year sentences for allegedly attempting to use witchcraft against the president, underscoring the government's stance on perceived threats.
What's next
Edwards has remained in custody since her arrest. Her lawyer indicated he had not yet discussed an appeal with her, leaving her legal options unclear.
