By By: The People News Online
Monrovia, Liberia — Nearly 72 hours after Prophet Key’s sentence by the Supreme Court full bench, the National Chairman of the Unity Party, J. Luther Tarpeh, has called for moral introspection and societal responsibility.
In a statement issued after the court’s ruling, Tarpeh acknowledged Prophet Key’s political influence during the recent electoral cycle, noting that the preacher played a significant role in mobilizing support for the governing coalition popularly known as the “Rescue Team.”
“It is true that Prophet supported the Rescue Team and swayed opinions our way,” Tarpeh said, recognizing the preacher’s energetic and persuasive communication style.
Despite acknowledging Justine’s political contribution, Tarpeh strongly condemned what he described as the preacher’s repeated use of abusive and degrading language toward women.
According to him, such rhetoric undermines Liberia’s cultural values and sends dangerous signals to younger generations.
“It is counterproductive and degrading for people to celebrate someone whose fame grows through delighting in insulting mothers who have done so much for their children,” Tarpeh stated. “We must shape the moral fabric of our society intentionally and pass on admirable values to the next generation.”
The Unity Party chairman emphasized that Liberia must not normalize abusive language against women, stressing that public figures must be conscious of their influence on children and youth.
Tarpeh also offered words of encouragement to Prophet Key, expressing hope that the preacher would use his time in incarceration to reflect on his communication style.
“I hope this moment allows you to soberly reflect and change your style of communication because our young children are watching,” Tarpeh noted, adding that wisdom is demonstrated through the willingness to change.
He further assured the preacher that the party’s public silence should not be interpreted as abandonment but rather as a stand for decency and responsible leadership.
Prophet Key’s sentencing by the Supreme Court follows a series of public controversies surrounding his sermons, livestreams, and public statements, many of which drew criticism for containing explicit insults and inflammatory commentary, particularly toward women and political opponents.
Civil society groups and women’s rights advocates had repeatedly called for legal intervention, arguing that his rhetoric bordered on incitement and public disorder. The case eventually reached the nation’s highest court, which ruled against the preacher, leading to his incarceration.
While his supporters view him as a bold and outspoken influencer who energized political discourse, critics say his methods eroded standards of public dialogue and threatened social cohesion.
The ruling has sparked renewed national discussion on freedom of expression, responsible speech, and the role of influential public figures in shaping Liberia’s social values.
Political analysts say Tarpeh’s statement reflects an attempt by the ruling establishment to distance itself from controversial rhetoric while still acknowledging the preacher’s role in past political mobilization.
As Prophet Key begins serving his sentence, the case continues to raise questions about the balance between free speech, political activism, and societal responsibility in Liberia’s evolving democracy.
