Summary
In May, false rumors about a military coup in Ivory Coast spread across social media. These claims added tension in a region already experiencing military takeovers. Influencers promoting pan-African views amplified these rumors, which may have started due to political tensions with Burkina Faso.
Key Facts
- False coup rumors in Ivory Coast appeared on social media in May.
- These claims were untrue but created concern among citizens and internationally.
- Influencers known as pan-Africanists spread the rumors, often supporting anti-Western views.
- Ivory Coast is scheduled to have presidential elections later this year.
- The country's current president, Alassane Ouattara, is viewed as pro-Western.
- Relations between Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso have been strained.
- There is no evidence that Russia was involved, though similar tactics have been suggested.
- Influencers connected to Burkina Faso's leader, Capt Ibrahim Traoré, have been promoting these narratives.
