Calls for release of Sierra Leonean singer jailed in ‘crackdown on free speech’
Activists are calling for the release of Sierra Leonean singer Zainab Sheriff, who was sentenced to over four years in prison for incitement and threatening language. Her case is seen as part of a broader government crackdown on free speech and political dissent in the country. Critics argue that the harsh sentence serves as a warning to others about the consequences of speaking out against the government.
- ▪Zainab Sheriff was sentenced to four years and two months in prison for incitement and threatening language.
- ▪Her charges stemmed from a speech made during a rally where she criticized election rigging.
- ▪Activists believe her case is a clear example of the government's efforts to suppress free speech and intimidate dissenters.
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Zainab Sheriff at a rally last November. Her case came a year after Hawa Hunt, a social media figure, was arrested on live TV for posts about President Julius Maada Bio. Photograph: HandoutView image in fullscreenZainab Sheriff at a rally last November. Her case came a year after Hawa Hunt, a social media figure, was arrested on live TV for posts about President Julius Maada Bio. Photograph: HandoutWomen in prisonGlobal developmentCalls for release of Sierra Leonean singer jailed in ‘crackdown on free speech’Zainab Sheriff unjustly sentenced to four years in prison for incitement and threatening language, say activistsSupported byAbout this contentSarah JohnsonTue 19 May 2026 04.00 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleLawyers, politicians and activists have called for the release of one…
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