Calgarian imprisoned in Sierra Leone for criticizing president and first lady

A Calgary woman is behind bars in Sierra Leone, following critical comments of that country's president and first lady online.

A Calgary woman was arrested on live television and is behind bars in Sierra Leone after posting a video online critical of that country’s president and first lady.

Hawa Hunt, 42, was on House of Stars, essentially the Big Brother of Sierra Leone, when police took her in on Dec. 22.

A Canadian citizen since 2008, Hunt also has citizenship in Sierra Leone and was arrested for criticizing President Julius Maada Bio and his wife in a viral video in May 2023.

“I do not believe she should be thrown in jail for something like that,” said Alicia Hunt, Hawa Hunt’s 20-year-old daughter.

Hunt has lived in Calgary for 20 years and also has two sons.

After posting the video, the musician, fitness trainer and social media influencer visited Sierra Leone multiple times without issue, but her family in Calgary believes her recent arrest on live television and almost two months of detainment are politically motivated.

“Technically, my mom did break the law; however, her punishment has been unjust,” said Alicia Hunt.

Hawa Hunt is charged with “transmitting insulting messages via a computer system” in accordance with the Cybersecurity and Crime Act 2021.

Prosecutors claim the video incited public disorder and damaged the reputation of the president and his wife.

Amnesty International is calling for Hunt’s release and a fair trial, raising concerns about the charges she faces and adding, “offences such as libel and defamation should be decriminalized.”

“It’s not supposed to be used to stop dissenting voices or hinder free speech,” said Rashid Dumbuya, Hunt’s defence counsel and former commissioner for human rights in the Republic of Sierra Leone.

Hunt posted an apology video days after her arrest.

“I hope the president and first lady know my mom is just an imperfect human being, but she has learned from her mistakes,” said Alicia Hunt.

Hawa Hunt awaits her second trial.

Her family says bail has been denied three times, but they are desperate for Hunt to return to Canada, concerned about a lack of food and her treatment in Freetown jail.

“My biggest wish is to have my mom at home with her family as well as just to know my mom is truly safe,” said Alicia Hunt.

Global Affairs Canada says it is aware of the arrest of a Canadian citizen in Sierra Leone.

Consular officials are in contact with local authorities, while Hawa Hunt’s family works with Ottawa and lawyers overseas.

Hunt and the first lady actually grew up together in Sierra Leone, but Hunt’s lawyer says it was not the first lady or president who filed the complaint that led to the arrest.