Misleading Allegations Online Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Testifies to Judges
Brigitte Macron's child, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a tribunal in Paris that inaccurate assertions online—such as the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life.
Auzière, a legal professional, was called as a witness in the court case of 10 individuals accused of digital bullying directed at Brigitte Macron.
Effects on Personal Routine
She stated that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about her demeanor, from her attire to her posture, because of the apprehension that every photograph might be distorted to advance negative campaigns.
"The result is that she systematically has to pay attention to her clothing, her body language, irrespective of her actions in day-to-day existence," Auzière testified.
Those on Trial and Allegations
Eight men and two women, in that age range, are facing charges for digital abuse. Several had limited online influence, while several more were more prominent.
All is charged with spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's identity. In certain cases, this included equating the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.
Upon being found guilty, they face up to two years in prison.
Consequences for Loved Ones
Auzière, one of three children from her mother's first marriage, explained how the baseless rumors have led to a "deterioration of her health" and a "deterioration of her daily happiness".
She explained, "Not a day passes when a person does not talk these claims to her."
She pointed out the repercussions on her relatives, including the younger generation being exposed to hurtful comments like "She is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".
"She has no idea how to stop it," Auzière remarked. "She's not elected, she has not sought any of this, and she is constantly facing this abuse."
Court Case Background
The legal proceedings is part of an ongoing effort in a wider judicial fight against the baseless theory that the first lady is supposedly transgender.
They have also filed a case in America alleging slander against a political commentator who amplified the allegation.
The legal filing asserts that the allegation is completely false and identifies that the name mentioned is really Brigitte Macron's older brother.
Defendants' Responses
In court, several defendants disputed the allegations.
- One defendant, serving as a local official, asserted he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and described his online statements as humorous.
- Another defendant argued that his social media shares were presented as "satire" and voiced worry that the trial could undermine "free speech".
- An art gallery owner explained he shared information as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".
Personal History
The inaccurate claim concerning Brigitte Macron's sex circulated partly because their marriage has long been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.
She, being two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered the future president when serving as a instructor at the institution he attended.
Their bond developed through the school's theatre programme, and they married in 2007, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's separation.
She wrapped up her testimony by expressing that the baseless rumors have created a "whirlwind that does not cease" for the first lady.