French President Emmanuel Macron is facing criticism after interrupting a youth-focused panel discussion at the Africa Forward Summit in Kenya to reprimand audience members for making noise during presentations. Videos of Macron seizing the microphone and demanding silence quickly spread online, prompting accusations of arrogance. The incident came as Macron promoted a renewed French partnership with the continent, including a $27 billion investment package focused on energy, agriculture, and artificial intelligence. Critics in Africa and France said his conduct reinforced perceptions of paternalism linked to France’s colonial history, while supporters argued he was trying to restore order. The controversy also follows backlash over Macron describing himself as a “true Pan-Africanist.”
AP
