Political Upheaval in Hungary

President and Justice Minister Resign Amidst Controversy

Hungary has been rocked by a political crisis following the resignations of President Katalin Novak and former Justice Minister Judit Varga. The catalyst for the departures was a controversial pardon granted to a wealthy businessman convicted of corruption.

Viktor Orban's Fourth Term

Meanwhile, Hungary's authoritarian prime minister, Viktor Orban, has secured a fourth term in office. Orban, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has been accused of dismantling democratic institutions and consolidating his power.

Novak's Resignation

Novak, a loyal ally of Orban, resigned on Wednesday, May 25, 2023. Her departure follows an investigation into the pardon granted to businessman Laszlo Szabo, who was convicted of embezzlement in 2018.

Varga's Exit

Varga, the former justice minister, resigned shortly after Novak, citing her opposition to the pardon. She accused Orban of undermining the rule of law and called for an independent investigation into the matter.