May 4th, 2009

Liberal chief says party optimistic about EP chances

The liberal Free Democrats (SZDSZ) expect to succeed in the June 7 European parliamentary elections and await the test with self-confidence, party leader Gabor Fodor told MTI on Saturday.

Concerning the stake of the elections, Fodor said that the vote would show whether the liberals or the radical nationalists constitute the third strongest power in Hungary.

The Free Democrats represent liberalism based on the ideals of freedom and solidarity, a sphere of ideas that attracts many Hungarians. “SZDSZ wants to win over them,” he said.

Fodor said that it would be a shame for Hungary in the international arena if the radical nationalist Jobbik party became the third power and won a seat in the European Parliament. “The mentality of the extreme right is unacceptable for decent people, no matter whether they cherish the left-wing, the right-wing or the liberal cause,” he said.

One recent poll indicated that Jobbik has around five percent support — enough to gain seats in parliament — while polls show that the Free Democrats are below the threshold for parliamentary representation.

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