By: Sampat JMB Kpakimah
Residents of Monrovia remain sharply divided as Justin Oldpa Yeazehn—better known as Prophet Key—prepares for release from prison this month, with some defending his punishment and others questioning the severity of his sentence.
The Supreme Court jailed Yeazehn on February 13, 2026, for criminal contempt after he publicly accused Chief Justice Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay and the entire judiciary of corruption. He also directed abusive and derogatory language at the Chief Justice, including insults against her mother. The court handed down a six-month sentence and ordered a public apology.
Media reports place his release on August 13, barring any legal changes. In a vox pop conducted Thursday at Duala Market, citizens voiced opposing views on the case.
Richard Tokoah condemned the Prophet’s actions and praised the court’s decision. “He insulted the Chief Justice and his mother—that cannot go unpunished,” Tokoah said. “The judiciary acted correctly. If he repeats such behavior after release, authorities must hold him accountable again.”
Josephine Henney agreed. “You do not insult anyone’s mother. He made a grave error, and now he faces the consequences. Let him serve his time and learn from it.”
But not everyone shares that view. James Varney called the treatment unfair and expressed disappointment that the Prophet’s voice on Liberia’s drug crisis fell silent behind bars. “He could have helped intervene in the drug problem,” Varney said. “I welcome his release.”
Morris Massaley struck a balanced tone, saying he believes Yeazehn has reformed. “I trust that he has changed. They jailed him for a reason—he was not punished for nothing. But now, let him go,” Massaley said.
Another resident, who identified himself only as Mr. Good, urged the judiciary to apply the law evenly. “Let Prophet Key serve only what the court ordered, but if anyone else commits the same offense, jail them too. Justice must treat everyone the same.”
