Orbán rival steps aside, but anti-corruption work to continue through foundation

Known for publishing photos, documents and on-the-ground investigations into suspected corruption, Ákos Hadházy is stepping back from politics, with his work set to continue through a foundation.

Hadházy, an independent Member of Parliament known in Hungary for investigating alleged corruption and the use of public funds, failed to win a seat in the 2026 election. He says he will return to his original profession as a veterinarian, but will remain active in public affairs through a foundation he has established.

Over the past decade, Hadházy has built a reputation by publishing documents, photographs and on-the-ground reports about government spending, public procurement and the wealth of political elites. Much of his work appeared first on social media, where he has attracted tens of thousands of followers.

Zebras, luxury estates and public money

One of his most widely known cases is the so-called “zebra affair”, linked to Hatvanpuszta, a large estate associated with the family of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.

The case drew attention when Hadházy published photos of the site showing extensive development — and, unexpectedly, zebras. The unusual detail quickly became symbolic during Hungary’s recent political campaign, where the animals came to represent questions about unexplained wealth and luxury.

At the centre of the issue is not the animals themselves, but how such a safari-like setup appeared on a property whose ownership structure and financing are not fully transparent to the public.

In a recent update, Hadházy shared a response from the NÉBIH (Hungary’s food safety and animal welfare authority), which stated that ten zebras are officially registered under the Válvölgye Hunting Association, an organisation reportedly linked to businessman Lőrinc Mészáros, a long-time ally of the prime minister.

However, a drone video published by the investigative outlet Kontroll showed only four animals in a restricted inner enclosure. The outlet has promised to review the site again. Hadházy said that if the discrepancy remains, he will file a new complaint on suspicion of animal cruelty.

Confrontations during investigations

Hadházy’s work has at times led to direct confrontations. In August 2025, near Hatvanpuszta, a security guard attempted to block his vehicle while he was documenting the area. According to Hadházy, the guard swerved towards them, and on the uneven road, the guard’s car eventually overturned. Police later fined the driver and temporarily banned him from driving.

Beyond such incidents, Hadházy spent years publishing material on public procurement, state spending and the wealth of politically connected individuals.

Some of these reports focused on properties and luxury lifestyles linked to figures associated with Matolcsy György, the long-serving governor of Hungary’s central bank. While these cases did not always generate immediate headlines, they contributed to sustained public attention around corruption and inequality.

In recent years, stories about political “luxury living” became a recurring theme in Hungarian public debate. Many observers believe Hadházy’s work played a role in keeping these issues in the spotlight.

Following the announcement of his withdrawal, social media quickly filled with reactions, many expressing appreciation for his work:

“We still count on you, Ákos Hadházy! Without your critical role, we wouldn’t be where we are today.”

“I used to find you unlikeable, but I now deeply respect your work. You play an important role in Hungarian public life. Thank you.”

“There is no one more suitable to oversee the recovery of national assets. Your work has been invaluable.”

“Your investigative work and courage played a huge role in bringing down this government. Thank you.”

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Work continues through a foundation

After stepping back from parliamentary politics, Hadházy’s work will continue through the Tisztességes és Igazságos Társadalomért (Foundation for a Fair and Just Society).

The organisation aims to promote transparency in public spending, expose corruption, and improve access to reliable information. It also plans to address misinformation and encourage fact-based public debate. The foundation operates independently of political parties and is funded by private donations.

In his newsletter, Hadházy wrote:

“On 12 April, the Orbán system finally fell, and we now have a real chance to build a fair and just country. Others will lead this work from now on, but we must never turn away from public affairs. We must pay attention and speak up when necessary.”

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