Zambian-American influencer sentenced to 18 months for hate speech

A Zambian-American influencer, Ethel Chisono Edwards, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for hate speech regarding President Hakainde Hichilema. Arrested upon returning to Zambia for her grandmother’s funeral, Edwards pleaded guilty and expressed remorse for her online comments, which were deemed motivated by hatred. The court emphasized the need for a strong message against rising hate speech. Her case has sparked debate in Zambia over the balance between free speech and legal repercussions, especially since Hichilema has abolished criminal defamation laws.

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