Explore the unfolding political drama as Hungarian President Katalin Novak resigns amidst controversy over a controversial pardon decision.
Hungarian President Katalin Novak‘s resignation unfolded in the wake of mounting pressure stemming from her controversial decision to pardon a man convicted of covering up sexual abuse within a children’s home.
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The announcement, made on state television, included Novak admitting to an error in judgment and expressing regret for the lack of reasoning behind the pardon. The repercussions were swift, prompting Novak to curtail an official visit to Qatar abruptly.
Novak’s close association with conservative Prime Minister Viktor Orban added a layer of complexity to the situation, intensifying calls from the opposition for her resignation, along with former Justice Minister Judit Varga. Varga, who endorsed the contentious pardon, took responsibility for her role by resigning as a lawmaker.
The scandal marked an unusual setback for Orban, who has held power since 2010, particularly as the country grapples with economic challenges and approaches European parliament elections.
Orban’s longstanding commitment to protecting children from perceived threats, such as LGBTQ activism in schools, has been a point of contention with the European Commission.
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In response to mounting pressure, opposition parties demanded Novak’s resignation earlier in the week, culminating in a demonstration at Novak’s office. The public outcry prompted Orban to personally submit a constitutional amendment to parliament, interpreted by political analysts as a strategic move aimed at mitigating the political fallout from the controversy.