Inaccurate Allegations on Social Media Damaged Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Testifies to Court
Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, has told a tribunal in Paris that misleading allegations circulating on the internet—including the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life.
Auzière, a attorney, was called as a witness in the court case of 10 individuals accused of digital bullying directed at the first lady.
Effects on Daily Life
She explained that her mother now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, such as her fashion choices to how she stands, due to the apprehension that every photograph may be manipulated to advance hateful attacks.
"The outcome is that she constantly must be cautious to what she wears, her posture, regardless of she's doing in everyday routine," Auzière informed the judges.
Those on Trial and Allegations
Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. Some had limited online influence, while others were more visible.
All is accused of making malicious comments about the first lady's personal life. For some, this involved equating the age gap with her husband to offensive labels.
If found responsible, they face up to two years in jail.
Consequences for Loved Ones
She, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, stated how the false claims have resulted in a "decline of her health" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".
She said, "Scarcely a day goes by when someone avoids discussing these claims to her."
Auzière pointed out the impact on the family, for example her grandchildren being exposed to hurtful comments like "She is deceptive" or "She was born male".
"She has no idea how to end it," Auzière testified. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought public attention, and she is constantly facing these assaults."
Legal Battle Background
The legal proceedings represents a recent development in a broader legal battle targeting the baseless theory that the first lady is supposedly male.
They have pursued a case in America for defamation involving a conservative podcaster who promoted the allegation.
The case clarifies that the claim is entirely inaccurate and identifies that the name mentioned is really Brigitte Macron's brother.
Trial Testimonies
In court, a few individuals denied the charges.
- One defendant, now a deputy mayor, stated he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and described his online statements as satirical.
- A fiction writer argued that his posts were intended as "satire" and voiced worry that the trial could threaten "free speech".
- Another individual said he posted posts as he believed it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".
Personal History
The baseless rumor regarding the first lady's identity circulated to some extent because the Macrons' relationship has long been a topic of comment on the internet.
Brigitte Macron, aged significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered him when she was a teacher at the institution he attended.
The connection between them grew through the school's theatre programme, and they married in that year, following her divorce.
She wrapped up her testimony by expressing that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "chaos that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.