Prophet Key Admits Contempt, Begs Supreme Court for Mercy

Monrovia, Liberia: Justin Opa Yeazeahn, widely known as Prophet Key, has admitted before the Full Bench of the Supreme Court of Liberia that his recent social media comments against Chief Justice Yarmie Quiqui Gbeisay amounted to contempt.

Appearing before the Court on Thursday, February 12, Prophet Key apologized to the Justices and pleaded for leniency.

“I promise you that I will not cuss or abuse again,” he told the Bench, vowing to change his behavior toward the Chief Justice, women, and public officials.

The contempt proceedings followed a series of Facebook broadcasts in which Prophet Key allegedly accused Chief Justice Gbeisay of corruption, claimed the Chief Justice received money from litigants, described the entire Supreme Court Bench as corrupt, and made remarks referencing the Chief Justice’s background and family.

“My Actions Were Out of Frustration”

Addressing the Court, Yeazeahn said his statements were driven by frustration over issues raised by citizens, including concerns linked to a land dispute and reported evictions.

He maintained that he holds no personal grudge against the Chief Justice but acknowledged that his language was inappropriate and crossed the line.

Defense lawyers Bestman Juah and Joseph Debleh told the Court their client fully accepts responsibility.

“He is remorseful and asks that the Court temper justice with mercy,” counsel said, adding that Prophet Key had also submitted a written apology.

Amici Curiae Challenge Free Speech Claim

Court-appointed amici curiae argued that abusive and insulting language is not protected under the Constitution’s guarantees of free speech.

They told the Court that while freedom of expression is guaranteed, it is not absolute and must not infringe on the rights and reputations of others.

“Every citizen has the right to freedom of speech,” one of the amici stated, “but when that expression invades the rights of others, the law must take its course.”

They urged the Court to treat Prophet Key’s conduct as contempt and impose appropriate sanctions.

During the hearing, Chief Justice Gbeisay described the incident as part of a broader pattern of public insults targeting women and prominent figures in Liberia.

Following arguments from both sides, the Supreme Court reserved its ruling. The decision is expected on Friday, February 13, at 11:00 a.m. The ruling is anticipated to address the limits of free expression and the Court’s contempt powers in the age of social media.