Monrovia — Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia, Cllr. Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay has clarified that social media personality and self-styled Prophet, Justin Oldpa Yeazehn, popularly known as Prophet Key, has not been cited under contempt of court, stressing that the Supreme Court’s action is rooted in constitutional due process and respect for freedom of expression.
By Willie Tokpah, willien.tokpah@frontpageafricaonline.com
Addressing growing public speculation, the Chief Justice explained that while the 1986 Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and expression, it also vests the Supreme Court with final authority to interpret the Constitution and safeguard the administration of justice.
“The Constitution of Liberia gives freedom of expression. The same Constitution gives the Supreme Court the authority to interpret the Constitution and guide the laws, so whatever it says is final,” Cllr. Gbeisay said.
Background to the Summons
According to the Chief Justice, the Court’s decision followed what he described as sustained public attacks against the Supreme Court, including personal insults directed at the Office of the Chief Justice and members of his family.
“In recent times, there have been attacks on the Supreme Court, specifically on the Chief Justice and even the mother of the Chief Justice. The Supreme Court decided to cite him,” he disclosed.
Cllr. Gbeisay emphasized that the citation should not be misconstrued as a finding of guilt or a contempt ruling, noting that it is a procedural step designed to allow the respondent to be heard.
Due Process Assured
The Chief Justice confirmed that Prophet Key will appear before the Full Bench of the Supreme Court with legal representation to show cause why he should not be held in contempt.
“Prophet Key will be given due process in court. He will appear in court with his lawyer and give the court sufficient reasons why he should not be held in contempt,” he said.
He added that if the Court finds the explanations satisfactory, no punitive action will follow.
“If he gives sufficient reasons, he will walk away as though nothing had happened,” Cllr. Gbeisay stated.
Remarks in Lofa County
The Chief Justice clarified the opening of the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court in Lofa County, where he reaffirmed the Judiciary’s commitment to upholding constitutional freedoms while protecting the dignity and independence of the courts.
He reminded Liberians that the Supreme Court has consistently defended freedom of expression but will intervene when conduct threatens the administration of justice or undermines public confidence in the Judiciary.
Cllr. Gbeisay described recent personal attacks against the Court as deeply troubling and capable of exposing the Judiciary to ridicule and disrepute.
Official Citation Details
In an official citation issued through the Office of the Clerk on February 4, Prophet Key was ordered to appear before the Supreme Court on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 3:00 p.m.
The citation, signed by Cllr. Sam Mamulu, Clerk of the Supreme Court, cited Prophet Key’s alleged “continuous and sustained barrage of invectives against the person of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia, the Supreme Court, and other members of the Bench,” which the Court said had exposed it to public ridicule.
The communication made clear that the proceeding is a show-cause hearing, not a declaration of contempt, and is intended to allow the respondent to explain why sanctions should not apply.
Court Draws Line Between Criticism and Abuse
Chief Justice Gbeisay stressed that the Supreme Court is not hostile to criticism or dissent, including expression on social media, but drew a firm line between legitimate critique and abusive or insulting conduct.
“The Court is not seeking to punish opinion,” he said.
“It is enforcing the law and ensuring respect for judicial institutions.”
He rejected claims that the action was motivated by personal interest, explaining that contempt proceedings exist solely to protect the administration of justice.
Prophet Key Responds
Late Monday, February 9, Prophet Key publicly acknowledged that he insulted the mother of the Chief Justice, stating that he would not deny his conduct. He confirmed his intention to appear before the Full Bench to explain what he described as his “unruly behavior,” despite calls from some supporters urging him to disregard the Court’s citation.
National Debate
The case has ignited a national debate over the limits of free expression, judicial authority, and the rule of law, with legal observers noting that the outcome will depend on whether the respondent provides sufficient legal justification for his actions.
Under Liberian law, if such a justification is deemed adequate, the matter may be dismissed without sanction.
