The communications department of the Ivorian defence defense Wednesday reacted strongly to the spread of false rumours on social media suggested that the deputy prime minister’s wife had died.
In an official statement, the Ivorian authorities formally denied the rumours, describing them as “malicious” and “fanciful.”
The statement reassured the public, specifying that the wife of the Deputy PM Tene Birahima
Ouattara is in good health.
The communications department specifically targeted the newspaper Echos de la Republique for reprimand.
In its July 1, 2026 edition, the daily newspaper boldly announced a “national mourning,” which the communications department considers an “irresponsible and unprofessional” attitude that violates basic journalistic rules and ethics.
The authorities accuse the media outlet of deliberately spreading false news to undermine public order and the stability of institutions.
Faced with the seriousness of this editorial lapse, the defense minister announced that he reserves the right to take legal action against the publishers. These actions will target the newspaper and its authors and will be brought before media regulatory bodies and the competent courts.
In conclusion, the defence ministry’s communications department calls on the public and media professionals to exercise vigilance.
It urges citizens to act responsibly and to rely only on official state communication channels.
Deputy PM Tene Birahima Ouattara who doubles as defense minister is the younger brother of President Alassane Ouattara.
AP/Sf/fss/as/APA