The Embassy of Côte d’Ivoire to the French Republic and the Principality of Monaco issued a stern rebuke on Thursday in Paris, condemning statements made by French political leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon during a public gathering in France. The declaration labeled his remarks as a direct affront to Ivorian institutions, the Ivorian people, and President Alassane Ouattara himself.

In a formal statement signed by Ambassador Maurice Kouakou Bandaman, the embassy highlighted Mélenchon’s accusations against the Ivorian head of state. The French politician alleged that President Ouattara had sidelined his political rivals in the most recent presidential election and secured a fourth term, which he described as “unconstitutional.”

The diplomatic representation dismissed these claims as irresponsible, disrespectful, and deeply offensive, asserting that Mélenchon lacks any legitimate authority or expertise to critique the processes and institutions that oversaw and validated Côte d’Ivoire’s electoral consultations.

The embassy underscored Côte d’Ivoire’s status as a sovereign nation since gaining independence on August 7, 1960, emphasizing that no foreign political figure has the right to make derogatory comments about the country. It also stressed the enduring friendship and cooperation between Côte d’Ivoire and France, rooted in mutual respect and strengthened under the leadership of Presidents Félix Houphouët-Boigny and Alassane Ouattara. The statement cautioned that aspiring French leaders should consider the broader implications for bilateral relations.

Concluding the declaration, the embassy announced its intention to pursue all legal avenues to address what it views as an insult to the Ivorian people and their president. The document, dated July 16, 2026, was signed by Ambassador Bandaman, reinforcing Côte d’Ivoire’s unwavering stance on the matter.

By Boureima Amadou — Reporter