Published: February 13, 2026
By Melvin Jackson
MONROVIA — The Supreme Court of Liberia on Thursday reserved its ruling in contempt proceedings against Justin Oldpa Yeazehn, popularly known as Prophet Key, following arguments before the Full Bench at the Temple of Justice.
The case stems from a Feb. 4, 2026 citation issued by the Court ordering Yeazehn to appear and “show cause why you should not be held in contempt of court.” The citation alleged that he had made sustained public remarks directed at Chief Justice Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay and members of the Supreme Court that the justices said exposed the judiciary to ridicule and disrepute.
According to the Court’s order, the alleged statements included personal attacks against the Chief Justice. The matter has triggered public debate over the boundaries between constitutionally protected speech and conduct that may constitute contempt of court.
Article 15 of Liberia’s Constitution guarantees freedom of expression but also subjects that right to limitations where speech infringes upon the rights and reputations of others or undermines public order.
When Yeazehn first appeared before the Full Bench on Tuesday, Feb. 10, he informed the Court that he did not have private legal counsel and requested representation.
The justices subsequently appointed attorneys from the Public Defender’s Office, including the head of that office, to represent him. The matter was continued to Thursday, Feb. 12, for full argument.
During the hearing, counsel representing Yeazehn acknowledged that their client’s statements were inappropriate and apologized to the Court.
Cllr. Bestman Juah, appearing on his behalf, urged the Court to temper justice with mercy.
“While Article 15 provides for free speech and opinion, once such actions injure another person, one must be held responsible,” Juah told the Bench, conceding that his client’s conduct crossed constitutional limits.
Yeazehn also addressed the Court directly, admitting that he had made offensive remarks, including insults directed at the Chief Justice. He expressed remorse and pledged to refrain from similar statements in the future.
“From today, I will never insult anyone again,” he told the justices.
Several amici curiae and legal practitioners participated in the proceedings. Representatives advocating for enforcement of the Court’s authority argued that meaningful sanctions are necessary to deter attacks on judicial officers and preserve institutional integrity.
They maintained that unchecked public disparagement of the judiciary could erode confidence in the justice system.
Chief Justice Gbeisay emphasized during the proceedings that the hearing was part of due process and not a predetermined finding of guilt. He noted that while freedom of speech is constitutionally protected, the Court retains inherent authority to safeguard its dignity and ensure respect for judicial processes.
Following arguments from both sides, the Supreme Court announced that it would deliberate and issue its decision at a later date.
The case has drawn national attention, raising questions about the scope of contempt powers in the digital age and the extent to which public commentary about judicial officers may attract sanction.
The Court’s forthcoming ruling is expected to clarify how Liberia balances constitutional protections for free expression with the judiciary’s authority to address conduct it deems contemptuous.
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