The National Press Authority (ANP) took action during its seventh ordinary session held on Thursday, July 2, 2026. For serious breaches of the profession's ethical rules, the regulatory body issued two major suspensions and a reprimand against media professionals and their outlets, according to an official statement published on July 6.

1. False death announcement: One-month suspension for Échos de la République

The daily newspaper Échos de la République has been suspended for 26 issues (one month). Its editor, Mamadou Karamoko (alias H. Kara), has been banned from writing for one month, and his professional journalist card has been immediately revoked.

1. The reason: In the July 1, 2026 edition, the newspaper wrongly announced the death of the Vice-President's wife, Kagnon Alimata Ouattara, without any tangible proof.
2. Circumstance: Although Mr. Karamoko offered his public apologies to the vice-presidential couple and the nation during his hearing, the ANP sanctioned this flagrant violation of article 2 of the code of ethics.

2. Attempted corruption: Simplice Zahui suspended for one month

Simplice Zahui , a journalist at the newspaper Le Quotidien d'Abidjan , is suspended from writing for a period of one month, also resulting in the withdrawal of his professional card.

1. The reason: Seized by the editor of the weekly newspaper Le Franc-Tireur , the ANP judged the journalist guilty of attempted corruption and undermining fraternity.
2. The context: The case relates to articles concerning the management of the National Education Ministry staff mutual insurance fund (MUPENET-CI). The Council found a series of violations of the code of ethics (articles 6, 9, 12 and 18).

3. Seditious remarks: Blame for Our Way and Benjamin Koré

Finally, the daily newspaper Notre Voie and the journalist Benjamin Koré received a reprimand following an article published on June 29, 2026, entitled: “Affi N’Guessan, president of CAP-CI: Ouattara is in another term with a former Vice-President” .

1. The reason: The ANP accuses the media of having relayed "serious accusations and pejorative assessments implicating the institutions of the Republic", thus violating article 31 of the law on the press and several ethical provisions.

The ANP's reminder of the rules: In conclusion to its statement, the regulator calls on the entire profession to strictly adhere to journalistic ethics. The ANP emphasizes rigor in the handling of information, collegial solidarity, and caution regarding political statements that could undermine social cohesion.