Misleading Allegations Online Harmed Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Daughter Informs the Tribunal
Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, informed a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations online—among them the unfounded rumor that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.
Auzière, a legal professional, appeared as a testifier in the trial of a group of defendants allegedly involved in internet-based abuse against Brigitte Macron.
Consequences on Everyday Activities
Auzière explained that her mother now is always concerned about her appearance, from the clothes she wears to her posture, due to the fear that any image might be manipulated to fuel malicious comments.
"The consequence is that she systematically has to pay attention to what she wears, her posture, regardless of her activities in day-to-day existence," she testified.
Those on Trial and Allegations
Eight men and two women, in that age range, are in court for online harassment. A few had limited online influence, while others were more prominent.
Every defendant is accused of spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's personal life. In certain cases, this involved linking the disparity in years with her husband to hurtful comparisons.
If convicted, they may be sentenced to up to two years in jail.
Family Impact
She, one of three children from her mother's initial union, stated how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "deterioration of her well-being" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".
She explained, "Not a day passes when someone avoids discussing the issue to her."
Auzière pointed out the effects on loved ones, including her grandchildren being exposed to malicious statements like "She is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".
"She has no idea what to do about it," Auzière remarked. "She's not elected, she has not sought anything, and she is constantly facing this abuse."
Court Case Background
The legal proceedings represents a recent development in a broader legal battle targeting the baseless theory that the first lady is supposedly transgender.
The Macrons have initiated a case in America alleging slander against a conservative podcaster who promoted the theory.
The legal filing clarifies that the allegation is entirely inaccurate and points out that the name mentioned is in fact Brigitte Macron's older brother.
Defendants' Responses
Throughout the proceedings, some of the accused rejected the accusations.
- A retired business owner, serving as a local official, asserted he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and described his social media content as humorous.
- Another defendant claimed that his online activity were meant to be "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could undermine "freedom of expression".
- Another individual testified he disseminated posts as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "consequences for France".
Personal History
The inaccurate claim regarding Brigitte Macron's sex circulated to some extent because their union has long been a subject of discussion online.
She, being 24 years older than her husband, first met Emmanuel Macron when serving as a instructor at the institution he attended.
Their relationship evolved through drama activities, and they wed in the following year, following her separation.
Auzière concluded her account by stating that the baseless rumors have created a "whirlwind that does not cease" for the first lady.