Ivorian diplomatic mission protests mélenchon’s remarks in Paris

Abidjan, July 16, 2026 – The Embassy of Côte d’Ivoire to the French Republic and the Principality of Monaco has issued a forceful condemnation, articulated in a statement released on Thursday in Paris. This strong protest comes in response to comments made by Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the La France Insoumise party, during a political gathering in France. The embassy asserts that these statements undermine Ivorian institutions, the Ivorian people, and President Alassane Ouattara.

Ambassador Maurice Kouakou Bandaman, who signed the diplomatic communiqué, highlighted that Mr. Mélenchon had publicly commented on Ivorian political affairs. Specifically, he accused the Ivorian head of state of marginalizing his adversaries during the most recent presidential election and of securing what he termed an “unconstitutional” fourth term.

The embassy views these pronouncements as deplorable, disrespectful, offensive, and derogatory. It firmly states that the French politician lacks any legitimate authority, qualification, or competence to pass judgment on Ivorian institutions, which were responsible for organizing and validating the country’s various electoral consultations.

The diplomatic representation further underscored that Côte d’Ivoire has been a sovereign state since achieving independence on August 7, 1960. It emphasized that no foreign political figure can arrogate to themselves the right to utter remarks deemed insulting toward the nation.

In its declaration, the embassy also highlighted the enduring bonds of friendship and cooperation between Côte d’Ivoire and France. These relations, it stated, are built upon mutual respect and have been strengthened under the presidencies of Félix Houphouët-Boigny and Alassane Ouattara. The mission believes that a political leader aspiring to the highest office in France should duly consider the interests inherent in the relationship between the two countries.

Finally, the Embassy of Côte d’Ivoire to the French Republic and the Principality of Monaco announced its intention to initiate all appropriate legal actions. This measure aims to ensure that the remarks, which it considers an affront to the Ivorian people and their President, are addressed before the relevant legal authorities.