Inaccurate Claims on the Internet Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Daughter Informs the Tribunal
The French first lady's child, her daughter, informed a Paris court that misleading allegations spread through social media—such as the unfounded rumor that she is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life.
Auzière, a attorney, was called as a witness in the trial of ten people facing charges for online harassment directed at Brigitte Macron.
Impact on Everyday Activities
Auzière explained that Brigitte Macron now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, such as the clothes she wears to her posture, because of the concern that any image may be manipulated to fuel hateful attacks.
"The result is that she constantly must be cautious to her outfits, her body language, no matter what her actions in her daily life," Auzière told the court.
Accused Individuals and Accusations
Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for digital abuse. A few had modest digital reach, while others were more visible.
Each one is charged with posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's personal life. Among them, this involved comparing her age difference with the French president to hurtful comparisons.
Upon being found guilty, they face a maximum of two years in prison.
Effect on Relatives
Auzière, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, stated how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "deterioration of her health" and a "deterioration of her quality of life".
She said, "Hardly a day passes when a person fails to mention these claims to her."
Auzière pointed out the effects on loved ones, including the younger generation hearing malicious statements like "She is lying" or "She is your grandfather".
"She is unsure how to end it," she stated. "She holds no office, she has not sought public attention, and she is constantly facing these assaults."
Court Case Background
The legal proceedings is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle against the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is male.
They have pursued a US lawsuit alleging slander against a conservative podcaster who promoted the allegation.
The case asserts that the allegation is completely false and points out that the person cited is in fact her older brother.
Trial Testimonies
In court, a few individuals rejected the charges.
- One defendant, serving as a local official, claimed he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and referred to his posts as ironic.
- A fiction writer claimed that his posts were meant to be "satire" and expressed concern that the case could undermine "freedom of expression".
- An art gallery owner testified he disseminated posts as he believed it was a global issue with "implications for the country".
Relationship Background
The false theory about Brigitte Macron's identity spread to some extent because their marriage has long been a subject of discussion on the internet.
Brigitte Macron, who is two decades older than her husband, originally knew him when she was a educator at his secondary school.
Their relationship developed through the school's theatre programme, and they married in the following year, following Brigitte Macron's separation.
Auzière wrapped up her account by saying that the inaccurate allegations have produced a "storm that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.