Recent resignations pose unprecedented crisis for Hungarian PM Viktor Orban
Hungary’s government faces turmoil as two key female members, President Katalin Novak and ex-Justice Minister Judit Varga, resign amid controversy.
They claimed responsibility for the contentious pardoning of Endre K, a former orphanage official involved in a child abuse cover-up. The pardon undermines the government's stance on protecting children and family values.
The resignations throw Orban into a major predicament, losing Novak, who was seen as the compassionate face of national family policy, and Varga, a vocal critic of EU officials who was slated to lead the party in upcoming elections.
Other allies, including Orban's communication head Antal Rogan and adviser Zoltan Balog, face scrutiny. Balog is accused of lobbying for Endre K’s pardon, which he denies.
Amidst the upheaval, Peter Magyar, a prominent party insider and Varga's ex-husband, publicly denounced the government, claiming it conceals corruption and greed. His extensive criticisms on social media and interviews highlight widespread discontent.
Opposition parties have demanded investigations into state operations and presidential clemency decisions. Government and loyalist media respond with defiance, rejecting accusations and rallying support for Orban.
Despite the significant setback, Orban has remained silent, with many eagerly awaiting his response, perhaps during his annual state of the nation address. The controversy has shaken but not toppled his 14-year rule, with protests looming, signaling a pivotal moment for Hungarian politics.