Côte d’Ivoire: Saïd Penda trial, the response of a state governed by the rule of law to organized disinformation
On July 18, 2025, at 8 a.m., the Abidjan-Plateau Court of First Instance will serve as the stage for a symbolic showdown: the confrontation between the rule of law and media impunity, embodied by Saïd Penda. Behind this pseudonym is Mbombo Penda Saidou, an individual known not for journalistic integrity, but for questionable methods: defamation, public insults, slander, invasion of privacy, and endangering others. These are the serious accusations brought against him by Patrice Kissi, a well-known communications expert and advisor to the CEO of EBOMAF, Mahamadou Bonkoungou.
A previous incident had already exposed Saïd Penda’s controversial methods. Under the guise of being a “whistleblower”, he publicly attacked EBOMAF and its president, Mahamadou Bonkoungou, with baseless accusations. Independent fact-checking revealed the falsehoods in his claims, uncovering behind them a media pressure strategy rooted in disinformation and targeted discredit.
This trial goes beyond an individual case. It highlights the damage caused by a toxic ecosystem where some self-proclaimed “investigative journalists” manipulate public opinion and digital platforms to pressure independent African companies. EBOMAF, a key player in pan-African development, is being targeted today for refusing to yield to the tactics of a blackmailer.
The group is not the only target. Through it, an entire economic model based on merit, innovation, and loyalty is under attack. This trial should be seen as a necessary clarification between two visions of Africa: one that builds, and one that destroys. One moves forward through projects; the other thrives behind the scenes, armed with rumors and threats.
At a time when the continent is demanding greater information sovereignty, the judicial response in Côte d’Ivoire sends a strong message. The era of paid pens and lies dressed as truth is coming to an end. It is time to restore dignity to public discourse and discipline to journalistic commitment.
