Ivorian music diva Josey has once again found herself at the center of a media storm. The spark? A pastor's inflammatory remarks during a church service, which immediately ignited social media. Despite the intensity of the attacks, the artist is standing firm and has seen a wave of support rise around her.

A sermon that sounded like an indictment

A viral video sparked the controversy. It shows an Ivorian religious leader directly confronting the singer from the pulpit. Openly accusing her of "husband stealing," the cleric went so far as to incite legal action, arguing that such matters of the heart should be resolved in court and encouraging wronged wives to file complaints.

These remarks, deemed excessive and shocking by a large part of the internet, instantly unearthed old demons from the past and revived debates around the star's private life.

Between detachment, emotion and a surge of solidarity

Accustomed to the turmoil of social media, Josey finally broke her silence. While displaying a certain detachment—reminding everyone that she has been immune to criticism for years—the singer of "Diplôme" couldn't hide her emotion at the persistence of what she describes as long-standing cyberbullying.

A united front against criticism: In this ordeal, Josey is far from isolated. She can count on the unwavering support of her partner, former Elephants captain Serey Dié, but also on a strong backlash from several presenters, influencers and public figures of Ivorian culture, who have come to denounce the relentless attacks she is facing.