SUPREME COURT, MONROVIA – Lawyers representing defendant Justine Oldpa Yeazehn, also known as Prophet Key, pleaded for mercy before the Supreme Court of Liberia today, Thursday, February 12, 2026, as he faced allegations of contempt of court for publicly attacking Chief Justice Yamie Gbeisay and the judiciary. Lawyers representing Chief Justice Gbeisay rejected the plea, insisting that Prophet Key should face punitive action.
Prophet Key was reportedly crying and begging the Supreme Court not to be jailed, emphasizing his desire for leniency. The court summoned him to answer allegations of invectives and contempt of court in a formal citation issued on February 4, 2026, signed by the Clerk of the Supreme Court, Cllr. Sam Mamulu. The citation commanded Yeazehn to appear before the Full Bench of the Supreme Court on February 10 at 3:00 p.m. at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia to show cause why he should not be held in contempt.
According to the Supreme Court, Prophet Key is accused of engaging in “continuous and sustained attacks” against Chief Justice Gbeisay, the Supreme Court as an institution, and other members of the Bench. The Court stated that these actions have allegedly subjected the nation’s highest court to public ridicule and disrepute, going beyond legitimate criticism and constituting an affront to the dignity and authority of the judiciary.
The Supreme Court emphasized that such conduct undermines public confidence in the justice system and challenges the constitutional role of the Court as the final arbiter of legal disputes in Liberia. Statements attributed to Prophet Key reportedly circulated on social media platforms and in public forums, raising concerns about respect for the rule of law and judicial independence.
While acknowledging the right to freedom of expression guaranteed under the Liberian Constitution, the Court underscored that this freedom is not absolute. Expressions that erode respect for the judiciary or bring the administration of justice into disrepute may attract legal consequences. If found guilty of contempt, Prophet Key could face sanctions, including fines or imprisonment, depending on the gravity of the offense and the Court’s determination. Such penalties are intended to punish wrongdoing and deter future acts that threaten judicial authority.
The decision to summon Prophet Key before the Full Bench highlights the seriousness with which the Supreme Court views the allegations. Full Bench hearings are generally convened for matters of exceptional constitutional or national importance, signaling that the Court considers this issue a significant challenge to its institutional standing.
The behavior of Prophet Key has drawn widespread public disapproval. At the court, Liberians observing the legal proceedings, including Marie Miller from the United States, condemned his abusive language. Miller specifically called on the women of Liberia to stand firm against Prophet Key, describing his actions as arrogant and disrespectful toward women.
As the proceedings continue, Prophet Key’s actions and the Court’s response have become a focal point of national debate. Many Liberians see the case as a defining moment for respect toward judicial institutions and the enforcement of constitutional accountability.
The Supreme Court’s stance sends a clear message that sustained attacks on the judiciary, regardless of who makes them, will not be tolerated, reinforcing the principles of judicial independence and the rule of law in Liberia.
