International

Hungary's Novak Resigns Over Child Sex Abuse Pardon

Hungarian President Katalin Novak submitted her resignation on Saturday, citing public uproar over a pardon granted to a man convicted of child sexual abuse, Reuters has reported.

Reuters
Sursa: Reuters

Shortened Trip, Public Address:

Novak cut short a visit to Qatar and returned to Hungary to address the nation. "My decision to pardon an individual involved in a child sexual abuse case led to understandable confusion and concern," she acknowledged. "I take full responsibility for this mistake and therefore resign as President."

Protests & Opposition:

Public criticism had intensified in recent days. Over 1,000 protesters gathered in Budapest demanding Novak's resignation. Opposition parties also called for the removal of former Justice Minister Judit Varga, who signed the pardon document.

Controversial Pardon:

While Novak had previously pardoned around 20 individuals before Pope Francis' visit in 2023, details of this specific case sparked outrage. The pardoned individual was revealed to be the deputy director of a children's home, convicted of covering up a sexual predator.

Government Response:

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's Fidesz party responded by proposing a constitutional amendment to prevent pardons for child sex offenses.

Translation by Iurie Tataru

Bogdan Nigai

Bogdan Nigai

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