BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) — A former Hungarian government insider, Peter Magyar, released an audio recording on Tuesday accusing top officials, including former President and Justice Minister, of covering up corruption within Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s government. The scandal emerged in February after a pardon was issued to a man who covered up child sexual abuse by the director of a state-run orphanage. Following the revelations, several close Orbán allies were forced to resign amid widespread public outrage. Magyar, who is Varga’s ex-husband, alleges that evidence was removed from court records to conceal corrupt business dealings involving government officials.
In the recording posted on Facebook and YouTube, Judit Varga’s voice is heard describing how evidence was tampered with to cover up corrupt activities within the government. Varga claims that prosecutors were influenced by other officials to remove certain information from the records. Meanwhile, Magyar maintains that the recording was made during a conversation in the former couple’s apartment. Despite accusations of domestic violence by Varga, she did not deny that it was her voice in the recording, but instead claimed she made the statements under duress.
Magyar, who was a former but little-known member of Orbán’s political circle, made headlines in February when he accused the government of widespread corruption through a YouTube interview with Partizan. He further detailed these allegations during a speech in front of a large crowd in Budapest on March 15, announcing his plans to establish a new political party to challenge Orbán’s long-standing rule. Magyar’s supporters believe that his insider knowledge can disrupt Hungary’s political system, often viewed as autocratic. He has specifically targeted Antal Rogan, a close ally of Orbán, accusing him of leading efforts to tamper with evidence.
The Hungarian government has dismissed Magyar as an opportunist seeking personal gain following his divorce and loss of positions in state companies. However, his public accusations have caused political turmoil within Orbán’s government, leading to resignations and economic challenges. Magyar has called for the government to step down due to the evidence tampering allegations and organized protests demanding accountability. Thousands of demonstrators gathered at the Public Prosecutor’s Office in Budapest to show support for Magyar and demand the resignation of the attorney general, whom he accuses of acting in favor of Orbán’s ruling party. The protesters emphasized the need for an independent investigation free from political interference.
One protester, Katalin Varga, expressed solidarity with Magyar’s message, highlighting the detrimental impact of corruption on Hungary’s political, cultural, and social fabric. She believes that corruption has led to a gradual disintegration of the country, emphasizing the importance of addressing these issues. Magyar’s call for transparency and accountability has resonated with many Hungarians, fueling public anger towards the government’s alleged cover-up of corruption scandals. As the political crisis unfolds, tensions continue to rise, challenging Orbán’s grip on power and raising concerns about the future of Hungary’s democracy.
