Blogger Elias Musyani Faces Possible 5-Year Sentence for Harassing Yo Maps’ Wife
Zambian social media blogger Elias Musyani is facing a potential five-year prison sentence with hard labour, a K150,000 fine, or both after being found with a case to answer in a cyber harassment case involving Kidist Kifle, wife of renowned music artist Yo Maps.
Musyani’s Court Drama and Allegations
During his court appearance today, Musyani was dragged out of the premises by police officers, with his hands cuffed and his belt held by law enforcement. In a desperate attempt to attract media attention, he claimed he was being unfairly harassed, stating:
“I am innocent. Mr. President, this is what the police are doing, they are harassing me with no search warrant. I have never killed anybody. I am a youth, and I am being harassed.”
His mother also blamed Yo Maps and Kidist for her son’s predicament, warning them that if anything happened to Musyani, his blood would be on their hands.
Cyber Harassment Charges and Trial Update
Musyani was found with a case to answer by Magistrate Mutinta Mwenya but opted to remain silent in his defense and did not call any witnesses. The court has set judgment for April 14, 2025.
The charges stem from posts on Musyani’s Facebook page, where he allegedly harassed and made distressing remarks about Kidist Kifle, including:
- Questioning her relationship with Yo Maps
- Making derogatory remarks
- Allegedly threatening to send thugs to rape Kidist in front of her husband and daughter
Awaiting Judgment
With the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act No. 2 of 2021 in place, cyber harassment is a serious offense in Zambia. If found guilty, Musyani faces a harsh penalty that could set a precedent for online conduct in the country.
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