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In a recent development, Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Mádi, also referring to himself as Hungary’s ‘national leader,’ has rejected claims by his predecessor, Viktor Orbán, that he would be entitled to a substantial severance pay under a law initially introduced by Orbán’s administration. The controversy arises as Orbán’s personal wealth has been the subject of ongoing scrutiny amid accusations of corruption and money laundering.
Péter Mádi made the revelation during a recent speech addressing the public’s growing concerns over Viktor Orbán’s wealth. Orbán, who, according to Hungarian tax records, has an astonishingly low wealth declaration, with the bulk of his assets being his family-owned estate in the countryside, has faced severe backlash for amassing a fortune while in power.
As per the law introduced by Orbán’s government, a minister or prime minister facing dismissal would be entitled to severance pay, which, in this case, would be approximately 38 million Hungarian Forint (HUF), or around $125,000 USD, based on an annual salary. However, the Prime Minister emphasized that Orbán would not receive the severance pay, citing an array of reasons, including the government’s ongoing probe into alleged corruption and money laundering.
The rejection comes amidst a long-standing probe by Hungarian authorities into Orbán’s assets and dealings, amidst allegations of financial misconduct and abuse of power. Critics have pointed to Orbán’s sudden enrichment since taking the helm of Hungary’s government, with many speculating that he may have accumulated his fortune through questionable means.
In response to these concerns, the Hungarian government has maintained that the probe into Orbán’s personal affairs is purely a matter of transparency and fairness. Orbán’s party, Fidesz, has maintained an iron grip on power in Hungary, and critics argue that the ongoing investigation is a thinly veiled attempt to consolidate power.
The situation highlights deepening tensions between Prime Minister Mádi’s administration and the remnants of Orbán’s government amidst an increasingly polarized public debate over the legitimacy and accountability of Hungary’s rulers. As the scandal continues to simmer, the public remains on high alert, demanding greater transparency and accountability from the government.