A Liberian activist based in the United States, Norris Johnson, has voiced concern over the recent imprisonment of political activist Justin Opa Yeazean, popularly known as Prophet Key, describing the ruling as a precedent-setting decision with potential implications for free expression in Liberia.
Prophet Key, known for his outspoken political activism and support for the former opposition Unity Party (UP) during its rivalry with the then-ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment for contempt of court. The sentence followed social media remarks in which he allegedly insulted the Chief Justice and members of the Supreme Court bench and also alleging that the judiciary is corrupt.
The decision, handed down by the Supreme Court of Liberia, has triggered divided public reaction, with some citizens welcoming the ruling as necessary to uphold the dignity of the judiciary, while others argue it raises serious constitutional questions.
In a statement posted on Sunday, February 16, U.S.-based activist Norris Johnson urged Liberians to look beyond personal views about Prophet Key and focus on what he described as the broader legal and democratic implications of the case.
“In any democracy, Supreme Court decisions do more than resolve disputes — they shape the future of our freedoms,” Johnson said. He noted that under Liberia’s 1986 Constitution, decisions of the Supreme Court are final and binding, and serve as precedent for lower courts.
Johnson referenced Article 15 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech and of the press, including the public’s right to be informed about the actions of government and its functionaries. He argued that judges and justices, as public officials, are subject to criticism, even harsh criticism.
While acknowledging that speech may be offensive or irresponsible, Johnson maintained that offensive speech alone should not automatically result in criminal sanctions, particularly imprisonment. He cautioned against what he described as an expansion of contempt of court powers to cover statements made outside the courtroom, including on social media platforms.
“Contempt of court is meant to protect the administration of justice, not to shield officials from dissent,” Johnson stated.
He warned that the ruling could have a chilling effect on journalists, civil society advocates, political actors, and ordinary citizens who express criticism of public officials online.
Legal observers note that under the doctrine of stare decisis, lower courts are guided by Supreme Court rulings in similar cases. As such, the decision in the Prophet Key matter may influence how future cases involving criticism of the judiciary are handled.
The Liberian-US-based activist concluded by calling for reflection on what he described as a pivotal moment for Liberia’s democracy.
“Today, it is Prophet Key,” he said. “Tomorrow, it could be any of us.”
