The Guardian view on the new Hungary: de-Orbánising at pace
As a Brussels deadline looms with over €10bn at stake, Péter Magyar’s first three months have been transformative in addressing a corrupt legacy
TL;DR
- Péter Magyar, Hungary's new Prime Minister, is implementing a swift and dramatic transformation program since taking office in May.
- He is dismantling the 'soft autocracy' and corrupt networks established by Viktor Orbán over 16 years.
- Reforms include the appointment of a new president, the return of news bulletins to state television, and the empowerment of investigators to recover public funds.
- Hungary is rejoining the European public prosecutor's office to combat financial crime.
- The government aims to demonstrate progress on corruption by the end of the month to secure over €10bn in frozen EU funds.
- Magyar has relocated the prime minister's office and opened the building to the public, symbolizing a shift from Orbán's era.