By: Akoi M. Baysah, Jr.
A prominent legal practitioner Cllr. Tiawon Gongloe a drafter of Liberia’s landmark free speech legislation, widely known as the Kamara A. Kamara Law strongly backed the decision of the Supreme Court of Liberia sentencing Justin Yeazeh commonly known as “Prophet Key” to six months imprisonment.
Cllr. Gongloe said the decision is committed to constitutional governance and the rule of law in regards to vulgar remarks directed at members of the Bench.
Speaking in reaction to the ruling, the legal expert emphasized that his position is firmly anchored in Section 17.3 of the Liberia Penal Code, which addresses criminal malevolence and conduct that undermines public order and the administration of justice.
“As a defender of constitutional freedoms, my views are strictly guided by the rule of law,” he stated. “While freedom of speech is guaranteed under the Constitution and statutes of Liberia, that freedom does not extend to speech that threatens, degrades, or unlawfully impugns the integrity of the courts.”
He stressed that respect for the judiciary is fundamental to constitutional democracy and the preservation of national stability.
According to him, attacks on the dignity of the courts risk eroding public confidence in the justice system and weakening the foundation of democratic governance.
“The authority of the Supreme Court must be upheld,” he added. “In a constitutional democracy, all citizens, regardless of influence, position, or platform, remain subject to the law.”
He concluded by urging Liberians to exercise their constitutional rights responsibly, noting that safeguarding the independence and dignity of judicial institutions is essential to maintaining the stability and continuity of the Republic.
