Freetown, Sierra Leone – Concerns are mounting over the well-being of Reality TV Star and social media influencer Hawa Hunt, who has spent over a month in detention following her high-profile arrest on live television.
Hunt, a dual Canadian and Sierra Leonean citizen, was taken into custody on December 22, 2024, while appearing on House of Stars, a reality TV show. Her arrest stems from a May 2023 social media video in which she criticized President Julius Maada Bio and First Lady Fatima Maada Bio.
She faces two charges under the Cybersecurity and Crime Act 2021 for allegedly transmitting insulting messages via a computer system—charges that prosecutors argue incited public disorder and defamed the president and his wife.
Health Concerns and Allegations of Mistreatment
Hunt’s family and human rights groups fear for her mental and physical health while being held at Pademba Road prison in Freetown. Her daughter, Alicia Hunt, 20, told the Guardian that her mother is enduring harsh conditions, including food shortages, mosquito infestations, and physical abuse.
“My mother said all the food there makes everyone sick. People would rather starve than eat it,” Alicia stated. She also alleged that Hunt admitted to regular beatings in prison, adding, “There should be no reason why they are laying hands on my mother or anyone.”
Calls for Justice and Fair Trial
Amnesty International has condemned Hunt’s detention and called for her release. Michèle Eken, a senior researcher at Amnesty’s West and Central Africa office, raised concerns over the Cybersecurity and Crime Act, which has been previously criticized for restricting freedom of expression.
Women’s rights advocate Alimatu Dimonekene also warned of the chilling effect Hunt’s case could have on free speech in Sierra Leone.
“People are holding back what they want to say in the media, and that’s a terrible place to be. We must hold governments accountable,” Dimonekene said.
Political Motives?
Hunt’s daughter believes her mother’s arrest was politically motivated. She claims that Hunt and the first lady were former schoolmates and had previous interactions online.
“I think they saw House of Stars as an opportunity to arrest her live on a national show and make an example of her,” Alicia alleged.
Legal Proceedings
Despite multiple bail requests, Hunt remains behind bars. A video surfaced on December 28, showing her apologizing to the president and first lady, stating she was being treated well. However, rights groups believe the statement was coerced.
When contacted, Mohamed Bobson Senu, deputy head of media for the Sierra Leone police, declined to comment, stating, “That matter is in court.”
With increasing pressure from international rights groups, the case is now being closely watched both within Sierra Leone and abroad.
