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The French first lady's child, her daughter, informed a judicial body in Paris that false claims online—such as the unfounded rumor that the French first lady is transgender—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

She, a legal professional, served as a testifier in the court case of ten people allegedly involved in digital bullying directed at the first lady.

Consequences on Everyday Activities

She explained that her mother now feels perpetual anxiety about how she looks, from her attire to her posture, because of the fear that every photograph might be distorted to support hateful attacks.

"The result is that she always needs to be careful to her clothing, her posture, irrespective of her actions in everyday routine," Auzière informed the judges.

Those on Trial and Accusations

The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are in court for internet-based bullying. Some had a small social media following, while the rest were better known.

Each one is accused of making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's personal life. Among them, this extended to linking the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.

Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in jail.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, a family member from her mother's previous marriage, explained how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "worsening of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her quality of life".

She said, "Hardly a day passes when a person avoids discussing this to her."

She pointed out the effects on her relatives, including the kids learning about hurtful comments like "She is deceptive" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".

"She has no idea how to end it," Auzière stated. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue anything, and she is continually experiencing this abuse."

Court Case History

This case represents a recent development in a extended court case addressing the inaccurate allegation that she is male.

The couple have pursued a legal action in the United States over false statements against a conservative podcaster who spread the allegation.

The lawsuit states that the allegation is entirely inaccurate and identifies that the name mentioned is really her brother.

Defendants' Responses

During the trial, several defendants disputed the allegations.

• A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, stated he "had no purpose to inflict damage" and referred to his online statements as satirical.
• A well-known publicist argued that his social media shares were meant to be "satire" and voiced worry that the trial could endanger "the right to speak freely".
• Another individual testified he shared content because he felt it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".

Personal History

The inaccurate claim about the first lady's gender spread in part because the Macrons' relationship has long been a topic of comment in digital spaces.

Brigitte Macron, being significantly older than the president, first met him when serving as a instructor at his school.

The connection between them developed through theatrical projects, and they wed in that year, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's divorce.

She concluded her account by saying that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "whirlwind that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.