Zambian-American influencer and political vlogger Ethel Chisono Edwards has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for hate speech over insulting remarks about Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema.
Edwards, 42, who also works as an estate agent in New York, was arrested at Zambia’s main airport three months ago following her visit to attend her grandmother’s funeral. She pleaded guilty in the Lusaka magistrate’s court and apologised to the president.
Magistrate Webster Milumbe said the sentence was necessary to send a strong warning, noting that hate speech has become increasingly common.
Edwards was convicted under the Cyber Security Act and the Cyber Crimes Act. She pleaded guilty to using a computer system to publish offensive statements motivated by hatred.
Her lawyer described her as a remorseful first offender, a breadwinner, and a philanthropist who sponsors a Zambian girls’ football team. He also apologised to the president, his family, and the nation on her behalf.
Edwards has been in police custody since her arrest, and her sentence will take effect from that date. Her lawyer has not yet received instructions on whether she will appeal.
More: BBC News
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