Opposition Socialist Party stalwart Ildiko Lendvai has called on the prime minister to say what he meant when he voiced hope that Hungary would not have to “replace democracy with another type of political system” in the interest of economic survival.
Lendvai reacted to Viktor Orban’s remarks made at an event organised by the Federation of Entrepreneurs and Employers last Thursday. She called on Orban to make clear what system he had in mind and what institutions and rights he would change.
Lendvai said his remarks, alongside with his labelling Hungarians “semi-Asian” and his proposal to “set up a strong, central power”, all required explanation.
Lendvai noted that under the new Hungarian constitution, the declaration of an emergency could involve restricting the independence of the law courts, access to legal remedy, ownership rights, as well as cutting welfare services and pensions. These measures could be activated in times of war, a natural disaster or industrial accident under the constitution, she noted.
