Zambian-American influencer sentenced to 18 months for hate speech

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete December 2, 2025 at 03:58 PM

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Zambian-American influencer Ethel Chisono Edwards, known as "One Boss Lady," was sentenced to 18 months in prison in Zambia for hate speech against President Hakainde Hichilema. Edwards, a US citizen and estate agent, was arrested at the Lusaka airport three months ago while visiting for her grandmother's funeral. She pleaded guilty to using a computer system to publish offensive statements, violating the Cyber Security Act and the Cyber Crimes Act. Despite her lawyer's plea for leniency, the magistrate emphasized the need to deter hate speech. The sentencing has sparked debate in Zambia regarding freedom of speech, even though Hichilema abolished criminal defamation laws.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Zambia ×250% Lusaka 60% Ethel Chisono Edwards ×380% Hakainde Hichilema ×4100%

Keywords

hate speech 100% zambia 80% influencer 80% sentence 70% cyber security act 60% hakainde hichilema 60% political vlogger 50% freedom of speech 50% ethel chisono edwards 40%