Authorities in Sierra Leone continue to detain Hawa Hunt, a social media influencer, after her bail was rescinded after failing to find two sureties with properties in Freetown’s CBD. Police arrested Hunt live on the reality TV show House of Stars on 22 December 2024, for criticising and using foul language against President Bio and First Lady Fatima Bio in a video clip from May 2023. She faces charges under the Cyber Security and Crime Act 2021, including disseminating insulting messages via a computer.
Amnesty International and other rights organizations have called for her release, citing that the arrest, continued detention, and bail denial are politically motivated and among many cases where law is weaponised to supress dissent. Civil society groups have raised concerns over her physical and mental health, which is reportedly deteriorating during prolonged detention. Additionally, video recorded while in custody giving an apology is circulating online and some of her critical advocacy content has been deleted from social media platforms, revealing either self-censorship or intimidation.
This has a chilling effect on the digital environment for CSOs, and freedom of speech. In the long run, it will cause to self-censorship among activists, discourage open expression and participation in public life, undermining transparency, accountability, and inclusive decision-making.