Political Turmoil in Hungary: Resignations Shake Orban’s Rule

Hungary is facing a significant political upheaval as Prime Minister Viktor Orban grapples with the most substantial threat to his rule since 2010.

The abrupt resignations of President Katalin Novak and former Justice Minister Judit Varga, two influential women in the male-dominated governing party, have intensified challenges to Orban’s leadership. The resignations stem from the controversial decision to grant clemency to Endre K, a former deputy director of a state orphanage convicted of influencing children to retract sexual abuse allegations against the orphanage director. The issue contradicts the government’s emphasis on protecting children and traditional family values.

President Novak, associated with policies promoting family growth, and Judit Varga, a key figure against European “bureaucrats,” resigned, leaving Orban without vital allies. Allegations have also targeted Antal Rogan, Orban’s communications chief, and Zoltan Balog, a personal adviser accused of influencing the clemency decision.

Adding fuel to the fire, Peter Magyar, Fidesz insider and Varga’s ex-husband, publicly criticized the government, accusing it of operating behind a facade. Magyar’s 1.4 million-viewed interview intensified the scrutiny, focusing on figures like Rogan and Istvan Tiborcz, Orban’s son-in-law.

Opposition parties demand investigations into the clemency, governance, and a call for direct presidential elections. Pro-government media responded fiercely, dismissing critics as “hyenas” and resorting to inflammatory language.

Orban, notably silent, faces a monumental challenge to his 14-year Fidesz rule. Despite the high-profile resignations, his power remains intact, though an anti-Orban protest is planned. Orban is expected to address the nation on Saturday, potentially revealing his strategy to weather this political storm. The outcome of this crisis will undoubtedly shape Hungary’s political landscape.