Hungary: Orban promises new laws after child abuse scandal after protests
Hungary's Prime Minister, Viktor Orban, has committed to creating new legislation following a child sexual abuse scandal and subsequent public outcry.
The scandal involved a former official who, despite being found guilty of concealing sexual crimes at a state-run children's home, received clemency.
This led to mass protests and the resignation of President Katalin Novak, who had granted the pardon, as well as two high-ranking members of Orban's Fidesz party.
As a result, Orban has declared a zero-tolerance policy for clemency in child abuse cases, and before addressing the public on Saturday, proposed amending the constitution to prohibit pardons for sex offenders.
His minister, Gergely Gulyas, revealed that the upcoming law will also address staffing reviews at state orphanages housing 7,000 children.
During his speech, which was limited to pro-government media attendance, Orban accepted the resignations of Novak and Justice Minister Judit Varga, urged a swift presidential election, and predicted parliamentary support for Sweden's NATO membership.
Despite starting his speech on a sober note, Orban eased into more comfortable territory, touting his administration's successes and criticizing the EU's policies on Ukraine.
The proposal for the new child protection law poses a strategic dilemma for the opposition in Parliament, risking blame if they dissent or aiding Orban's recovery from the scandal if they concur.
The record turnout at a Budapest protest, led by influencer Zsolt Osvath, highlights deep-seated societal concerns.
Orban's ability to move past the scandal hinges on continuous protests, potential galvanization of opposition, and any forthcoming legal or corruptive revelations which could impact the government's standing in the upcoming June vote.
Despite fears of losing voter support, Fidesz still retains a significant lead in opinion polls.