We explore the reasons behind their decision and the accusations they level against each other.

After nearly five years of intense internal conflict, it was decided in early April that the opposition in Ferencváros would split into two factions for the municipal elections:

- On one side stands the association led by the current mayor, Christina Baranyi,

- On the other, a group formed by local opposition party members and representatives elected in 2019, now rallying behind Ferenc Gegesy, who notably was Baranyi's advisor until the end of 2023.

The situation is particularly strained within the Momentum Movement: while the party leadership, alongside the LMP and the Two-Tailed Dog Party (with Baranyi as their mayoral candidate for Budapest), supports the mayor, the representatives elected under Momentum's banner in 2019 but who since left the party, now back Gegesy.

The upheaval leaves the outcome uncertain, but the heavily defeated Fidesz is undoubtedly not disappointed, seeing an opportunity as opposition votes similar to the situation in Zugló are now divided.

What's Causing the Tension?

At first glance, the conflict seems complex, but it essentially comes down to Baranyi's falling out with opposition politicians. Despite theoretically sharing the same political terrain, they now seek to replace her.

Baranyi's former allies now openly criticize her:

- "A narcissistic personality," says Zsolt Szilágyi, a local Jobbik representative, about Baranyi.

- "The mayor's thought process is undemocratic," states socialist Sándor Torzsa.

- Péter Árva, representing the Dialogue for Hungary in the council, describes her as "a person incapable of compromise."

Ferenc Gegesy adds that Baranyi has managed the office poorly, citing bad decisions and inconsistency. "It's true she doesn't steal," he acknowledges, despite his criticisms.

Baranyi, when asked about these critiques and the source of conflict, argues that there was never unity between her and the predominantly opposition block. According to her, the fundamental difference lies in their political cultures.

"This is the same group that ran against me in the 2019 primaries and have been in constant conflict with me from day one, never accepting their defeat," Baranyi explains, reflecting on the ongoing strife grounded in decades-old party political reflexes.

Despite the appearance of peace, the upcoming municipal election in Ferencváros was veiled in controversy. Baranyi's strained relations with some district opposition politicians were known, but their dominating presence in the council suggested a straightforward election.

However, opposition ranks fractured, with only the deputy mayor and a non-party external deputy mayor standing by Baranyi. The opposition, now including leftists, liberals, greens, and nationalists, has coalesced around Gegesy, also enticing the former Alliance of Free Democrats mayor to join their cause.

We delve into how opposition in one of Budapest's most publicly scrutinized districts splintered this severely and what lies at the core of this unmanageable conflict.

Controversial and Problematic Issues

Baranyi and the opposition have clashed on several issues, with each confrontation well-documented. These range from appointments and cultural disagreements to criticisms about lack of dialogue and the handling of district rehabilitation. The opposition levels accusations at Baranyi for unilateral decisions and lack of inclusivity, which she contests, pointing to the constraints and challenges faced during her tenure, including reduced funding and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Gegesy's decision to run has puzzled many, given his previous advisory role under Baranyi. Yet, disagreement over the direction of district initiatives, particularly the controversial renovation project on Ecseri Road, has prompted his re-entry into local politics.

With both camps prepared for the election, the division within Ferencváros's opposition paints a complex picture of local political dynamics, setting the stage for a contentious battle for the mayor's office.