The Hungarian Minister highlights new cash machine initiative and discusses welfare programs amidst global tensions.
Lázár János, Hungary's Minister of Construction and Transport, unveiled a new initiative aimed at ensuring the right to use cash by providing ATMs in every municipality during a community event in Páty on April 4, 2025. The event, referred to by Lázár as potentially the 'true club of warriors,' also featured Fidesz's communication director, Tamás Menczer.
Menczer opened the proceedings, quickly discussing local infrastructural improvements, including the renovation of a road towards Telki with a budget of HUF 1.7 billion, and the establishment of pedestrian crossings and bus stops.
Following Menczer's introduction, Lázár humorously referred to himself as a 'live ATM' while confirming he secured funding for the road project, suggesting that support for Fidesz has increased among locals in recent years.
He addressed larger geopolitical issues, asserting that significant global changes pose new risks, which he attributed partially to the
COVID-19 pandemic and guidelines from Brussels.
In comments regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine, Lázár suggested that Ukraine's involvement in conflict is being influenced by France and Germany without consulting the Ukrainian populace.
He paralleled this to the numerous options presented to Western youth in educational contexts, which he deemed abnormal.
The minister outlined a five-point welfare program proposed by the government, noting challenges posed by rising prices in a free economy.
He indicated that measures are being introduced to combat price increases, particularly in telecommunications and banking sectors, and claimed that Fidesz is uniquely positioned to protect citizens from exploitation by these industries.
He emphasized that ideology plays a minimal role in Fidesz's policies, with a focus on creating a livable Hungary.
Lázár called on opposition parties to provide concrete figures on proposed fiscal policies, characterizing the current rhetoric as no longer sufficient.
Changing the party's previously established slogan, he encouraged voters to trust their instincts and support Fidesz, asserting a strong interest in social engineering to retain a substantial base of rational voters.
Lázár reiterated his earlier statements regarding Pride events in Hungary, emphasizing a lack of necessity for such celebrations and vowing to restrict promotion of them, while asserting that love is free but advertising Pride is unacceptable.
In discussing contentious issues, he noted a scandal involving a pardon granted by the president and the wife of MP Péter Magyar to an associate of a convicted pedophile, stating his belief that capital punishment is warranted in such cases.
He reiterated a commitment to relentlessly pursue drug offenses in Hungary and commented on the perceived discrepancy between the Hungarian administration led by Viktor Orbán and the influence of figures like Péter Magyar.
During the event, Lázár addressed inquiries from attendees, including concerns about local business practices and treatment of public funds, asserting that entrepreneurs deserve respect while guarding taxpayer interests.
He suggested a balance should be struck where those benefiting from state support also contribute back to society.
The forum experienced a moment of urgency when an attendee collapsed, prompting Lázár to provide immediate assistance and address criticisms regarding healthcare matters in Budapest.
He indicated a need for better organization within local healthcare systems, emphasizing the role of competent family doctors.
Responding to questions about the government's focus on discrediting political opponents instead of highlighting achievements after 15 years in power, Lázár defended the approach, suggesting that past success alone may not suffice to maintain public trust in upcoming elections.
He indicated a future where political discourse is expected to grow more contentious.
In concluding remarks, Lázár made light of political rivalries, utilizing humor to address personal attacks aimed at him, while emphasizing that such accusations have faced him throughout his career.
He labeled criticisms of his character as inflammatory and focused on the importance of engaging with citizens’ concerns regarding governance.