Ethel Chisomo Edwards Arrested on Hate Speech, Sedition and Libel Charges

The Zambia Police Service has announced the arrest of Ethel Chisomo Edwards, a 42-year-old Zambian national, on multiple charges including hate speech, seditious practices and libel.

According to police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, the arrest was carried out by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) at Kabwata Police Station. Edwards, who resides in Kangwane Village, Chief Chizela, Mufumbwe District, as well as in New York, United States, now faces five counts.

The charges are as follows:

Count 1: Seditious Practices - Contrary to Section 57(1)(b), as read with Section 60(1)(c) of the Penal Code, Chapter 87. Edwards is alleged to have made and circulated a video containing seditious words intended to incite public dissatisfaction among Zambians.

Counts 2–4: Hate Speech - Contrary to Section 65 of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act No. 2 of 2021. Edwards is accused of:

1) Producing a video containing derogatory remarks about President Hakainde Hichilema, his family, and Zambian citizens, including threats of violence.

2) Directing hate speech in a video towards photographer Chela Tunkuta.

3) Circulating an audio recording with offensive remarks against Judith Kabemba.

Count 5: Libel - Contrary to Section 191 of the Penal Code, Chapter 87. Edwards allegedly published defamatory statements about Ms Kabemba.

Police confirm that Edwards was interviewed in the presence of her lawyer and acknowledged understanding all the charges brought against her. She is expected to appear in court soon.

Hamoonga warned that the police will continue to pursue individuals who abuse social media platforms to spread hate speech, incite sedition or defame others. He highlighted that such actions undermine public order, national unity and the dignity of individuals.

“We further warn perpetrators that the police will not relent in bringing to book all those found wanting under the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act,” Hamoonga said.