Hungary’s government has proposed a new law that would require its Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to follow strict financial disclosure rules. The ruling Fidesz-KDNP coalition introduced the draft legislation on Friday in Budapest. If passed, it would force Hungarian MEPs to submit asset declarations like national lawmakers.
The law would also give the National Electoral Office (NEO) the power to revoke mandates of non-compliant MEPs. If an MEP fails to follow the new rules, the NEO would notify the European Parliament directly.
Concerns Over Democracy and Fairness
Critics argue that this law could threaten democracy. They believe it gives the government more control over opposition politicians in Brussels. Observers warn that if Hungary removes an Members of the European Parliament (MEP) through national action, it would be the first case in history.
A European Parliament spokesperson declined to comment while the proposal remains in draft form. Legal experts say EU law takes precedence over national laws. They believe the European Parliament could refuse to recognize Hungary’s decision.
Tamás Lattmann, a constitutional scholar, says the move could lead to legal disputes. He expects the case to reach the European Court of Justice if Hungary enforces the law.
Opposition Leader Calls Law a Personal Attack
Péter Magyar, leader of the opposition Tisza Party, believes this law is aimed directly at him. His party has gained popularity ahead of Hungary’s 2025 elections.
In a Facebook post, he accused Prime Minister Viktor Orbán of trying to block him from running. He wrote, “You are nervous, and you have ordered your people to come up with a trick to stop me.”
A recent poll by Median shows Tisza leading Fidesz by nine percentage points. This result has made the ruling party uneasy.
Political analyst Szabolcs Dull pointed out that the law only applies to MEPs, not Hungarian MPs. He believes this shows it was created to target Magyar.
Dull also noted that Magyar has faced accusations of insider trading. He believes the law is meant to damage Magyar’s reputation rather than remove him from office.
Accusations and Denials
Fidesz supporters argue that the law is about transparency, not politics. They claim it will help reduce corruption and ensure all politicians follow the same rules.
Magyar, however, has denied any wrongdoing. He calls the accusations a political attack. He also says his financial records prove he did nothing illegal.
Magyar Challenges Orbán to Disclose Wealth
In response to the law, Magyar has agreed to disclose all his assets, along with those of his relatives. He has also challenged Orbán to do the same.
“Let’s pull our pants down together, Prime Minister! Is that a deal?” he said in a public statement.
He also mocked Orbán for alleged luxury purchases, including a private zoo with zebras and expensive landscaping. Magyar pointed out that the Prime Minister spent 30 million HUF (€75,000) on improvements to his estate in Hatvanpuszta.
A government spokesperson dismissed Magyar’s claims, saying they were not worth a response.
A Law That Could Change Hungary’s Politics
The proposed law has added tension to Hungary’s political scene. With elections just a year away, it could have a major impact on the country’s future.
If passed, it could change the balance of power in Brussels. It may also fuel more support for Magyar, the very person it may have been designed to weaken.
For now, the law remains in draft form. But as Hungary’s political climate heats up, this issue is far from over.