Blogger jailed for hate speech against President

Blogger and influencer Ethel Chisono Edwards has been sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment for posting hate speech on social media targeting President Hakainde Hichilema. The dual Zambian-US citizen, a real estate agent living in the US, has become renowned for her rants about the President over the past two years. BBC News reports that she was arrested at Zambia's main airport three months ago after arriving to attend her grandmother's funeral. She appeared before Lusaka resident Magistrate Webster Milumbe, accused of using her Facebook pages to post the derogatory remarks between February 2023 and February 2025. Edward admitted her guilt, but Milumbe said the court had a duty to send a strong warning, noting that hate speech had become increasingly common. Edwards, who has been in police custody since her arrest, was convicted under the Cyber Security Act and the Cyber Crimes Act; new legislation that came into effect this year. She acknowledged having no lawful excuse and conceded that her words were motivated by hatred. Her lawyer, Joseph Katati, described Edwards as a remorseful first offender with potential. He went on to detail how she was a breadwinner and philanthropist who sponsored a Zambian girls' football team. He also delivered a detailed public apology on her behalf. The jailing of the influencer has divided opinion in Zambia, with some saying it was necessary while others arguing that it violates freedom of speech.

Full BBC News report