Paris, July 16, 2026 – The Embassy of Côte d’Ivoire to the French Republic and the Principality of Monaco has issued a strong condemnation following comments made by Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the La France insoumise party. In a declaration released in Paris on Thursday, the diplomatic mission expressed its profound disapproval, asserting that Mélenchon’s remarks, delivered during a rally in France, undermine Ivorian institutions, its people, and President Alassane Ouattara.

Ambassador Maurice Kouakou Bandaman, who signed the official statement, highlighted Mélenchon’s interventions regarding Ivorian political life. Specifically, the French politician accused President Ouattara of systematically sidelining opponents during the most recent presidential election and of securing what Mélenchon termed an “unconstitutional” fourth term.

The embassy characterized these assertions as “irresponsible, disrespectful, insulting, and demeaning.” It further emphasized that the French political figure possesses “no legitimacy, authority, or competence” to pass judgment on Ivorian institutions, which were responsible for organizing and validating the nation’s various electoral processes.

The diplomatic representation underscored Côte d’Ivoire’s status as a sovereign nation since its independence on August 7, 1960. It firmly stated that no foreign political leader should presume the right to utter remarks deemed offensive towards the country.

In its declaration, the embassy also reaffirmed the enduring bonds of friendship and cooperation between Côte d’Ivoire and France. These relations, it stressed, are built on mutual respect and have been significantly strengthened under the presidencies of Félix Houphouët-Boigny and Alassane Ouattara. The mission suggested that any political leader aspiring to the highest office in France should duly consider the fundamental interests of these crucial bilateral ties.

Finally, the Embassy of Côte d’Ivoire to the French Republic and the Principality of Monaco announced its intention to initiate “all legal actions” to ensure that these comments, which it views as an affront to the Ivorian people and their president, are addressed by the appropriate judicial bodies.

The declaration bears the date of July 16, 2026, and is officially signed by Maurice Kouakou Bandaman, the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Côte d’Ivoire to France and Monaco.