Monrovia, Liberia – Justin Oldpa Yeazean, better known as Prophet Key, was found guilty of contempt of court and given a six-month prison sentence by the Supreme Court on Friday, February 13. In addition to the jail term, the court mandated that he write an official apology to the court and Liberian women for five days in a row and sign a bond promising never to use offensive or inflammatory language that goes against national values again.
The Supreme Court of Liberia’s decision to sentence controversial Prophet Key, to six months in prison for contempt has sparked a national discussion about the boundaries of free speech, the extent of judicial authority, and the primacy of the Constitution. Prominent political and legal voices have responded sharply to the ruling, revealing a nation once again struggling with the razor’s edge between institutional authority and liberty.
Senator Cllr., in the immediate aftermath of the decision, Augustine S. Chea saw it as a vital endorsement of constitutional order and judicial dignity. He cautioned the populace to respect the authority and dignity of the Honorable Supreme Court in a public declaration. According to him, the Court’s ruling clearly shows that the right to free expression has limitations even though it is guaranteed by the constitution.
Senator Chea insisted that the constitution does not allow speech that purposefully disparages, degrades, or jeopardizes the integrity of the Court. He noted that in addition to safeguarding freedom of speech, the Constitution also ensures respect for the rule of law, the administration of justice, and the institutions that uphold democratic governance. Many took his remarks as a warning that the days of unrestrained verbal assaults on state institutions might be coming to an end, especially for those who were known for using provocative language.
The lawsuit implies that free speech is now on trial for anyone who disapproved of the Supreme Court’s ruling that resulted in Prophet Key’s imprisonment. Even though not everyone agrees with Prophet Key’s outrageous comments, which frequently include profanity against people, particularly women, they believe that the Court’s understanding of contempt has to be given more careful consideration.
