A Zambian-American influencer has been jailed for 18 months under Zambia’s new cybercrime law for alleged hate speech against President Hakainde Hichilema, sparking a national free speech debate.
Ethel Chisono Edwards, known online as “One Boss Lady,” pleaded guilty in a Lusaka magistrate’s court to publishing offensive remarks about the president.
Arrested three months ago upon arrival for a family funeral, Edwards admitted her comments were motivated by hatred and had no lawful excuse.
Magistrate Webster Milumbe said the court had a duty to send a strong warning, noting the rise of hate speech online.
The conviction was handed down under Zambia’s Cyber Security Act and Cyber Crimes Act, legislation introduced this year to regulate online activity, combat cyber threats and criminalise digital offenses including hate speech.
While Hichilema abolished criminal defamation laws against the presidency after taking office in 2021, prosecutions under newer statutes have continued.
The ruling has divided opinion in Zambia. Supporters argue it was necessary to curb abusive online behaviour, while critics say it undermines free expression and signals the government’s growing reliance on cyber laws to silence dissent.
JN/APA