Cybersecurity Law in Sierra Leone Sparks Concerns Over Freedom of Expression
Freetown, Sierra Leone - The adoption of a new Cybersecurity and Crime Act in November 2021 has raised concerns over its impact on freedom of expression in Sierra Leone.
Background
The law was hailed as progressive for protecting online victims. However, recent developments have sparked fears that it could be used to repress critical voices.
First Applications
One of the first applications of the law was the arrest and charge of local artiste Alhaji Amadu Bah, also known as LAJ, after threatening a journalist on Facebook. This incident raised hopes that the law would protect the rights of victims online.
Concerns Over Potential Abuse
However, two recent cases have sparked concerns about its potential abuse:
- Journalist Sorie Saio Sesay was detained for six days after reporting to police over a comment he forwarded to a WhatsApp group. The authorities accused him of spreading false information about a police killing, and he was later released on bail with restrictions on his movement.
- Former Minister Ibrahim Kemoh Sesay was arrested and charged with cyberbullying against President Julius Maada Bio, sparking concerns that the law is being used to silence critics.
Repercussions
These cases have raised concerns among civil society groups, including the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), which has condemned the persecution of journalists and politicians by authorities. The group urges caution in weaponizing the cybercrime law to muzzle freedom of expression online.
Broader Trend
The incidents come amidst a broader trend of increasing government scrutiny of online activities in Sierra Leone. While the country decriminalized libel in 2020, raising hopes for greater press freedom, the recent cases have sparked fears that the authorities may be using new laws to repress critical voices.
Implications
The implications of these developments are far-reaching and raise questions about the future of free expression in Sierra Leone. As the government moves forward with implementing its cybercrime law, it is crucial that it prioritizes protecting the rights of citizens online rather than using the law as a tool for censorship.
Key Points
- The Cybersecurity and Crime Act has raised concerns over its impact on freedom of expression in Sierra Leone
- Recent cases have sparked fears that the law may be used to repress critical voices
- Civil society groups are urging caution in implementing the law to avoid stifling free expression online
- The government must prioritize protecting the rights of citizens online rather than using the law as a tool for censorship.