Summary
Ethel Chisono Edwards, a Zambian-American influencer known for her critical remarks about Zambia's President, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for hate speech. She pleaded guilty to using a computer to publish offensive comments about President Hakainde Hichilema and apologized for her actions. Edwards' sentencing under Zambia's new cyber laws has sparked debate over freedom of speech in the country.
Key Facts
- Ethel Chisono Edwards is a Zambian-American influencer and estate agent in New York.
- She was sentenced to 18 months in prison for hate speech against Zambia's President.
- Edwards was arrested at Zambia's main airport and has been in custody for three months.
- She pleaded guilty and apologized to President Hichilema and Zambia in court.
- Edwards was convicted under Zambia's new Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Acts.
- Her lawyer described her as remorseful and noted her role as a community supporter.
- The sentence has divided public opinion, raising concerns about freedom of speech.
- President Hichilema abolished criminal defamation laws, but other laws still prosecute speech.
