The identities of several people behind the satirical Monaco Cactus website have emerged following an investigation by the Monegasque authorities…
As reported by L’Informé, communications consultant Yves Romestan was questioned for around 12 hours last Friday over his involvement with the website, which describes itself as a satirical and parodic platform. Romestan previously worked as a communications adviser to the Prince’s Palace.
Romestan has now acknowledged that his Paris-based agency, YRSA Communications, provided editorial and technical support to Monaco Cactus. He describes his own role as that of an “editorial adviser”, whilst two YRSA employees are also involved, one working as co-editor-in-chief and another providing technical assistance. Romestan maintains that several Monegasques also contribute to the publication.
According to L’Informé, the investigation concerns allegations of defamation and handling information covered by the secrecy of an investigation. Numerous complaints have been filed against the website, including by Monaco property developer Patrice Pastor.
The case forms part of the wider legal and media battles that have developed in Monaco since the appearance of the so-called “Rock Files” in 2021, involving a series of allegations and counter-allegations between prominent figures in the Principality.
Despite the investigation, Romestan says Monaco Cactus intends to expand rather than disappear, bringing in further contributors and potentially launching a monthly print edition, with partners and investors also being sought.
It is reported that neither the Monaco prosecutor’s office nor the Prince’s Palace had responded to its requests for comment before publication.