Paedophilie scandal in Hungary: growing outcry against President Novák’s decision

In a recent decision, Katalin Novák, President of the Hungarian Republic, granted pardon to Endre K., who aided a notorious paedophile at the Bicske children’s home in sexually abusing children. This shocking revelation, now dubbed the Bicske scandal, has ignited widespread public outrage and stirred the collective conscience of the nation.

The highly controversial case is expected to cast a shadow over Novák’s international reputation and erode public trust in her leadership. While she has exhibited unwavering loyalty to party directives in the past, this move may prove to be a misstep. The nation grapples with the hypocrisy of the situation, particularly alarming given the government’s heavy advocacy for maximal child protection in recent years.

Official response to the paedophile scandal

Novák has openly replied to the accusations levelled against her regarding the Bicske case. She vehemently denied any intent to grant clemency to paedophiles, past, present or future, during her tenure. The Hungarian President added that she’s ‘disgusted by pedophilia and considers it one of the most heinous and serious crimes’. Novák underscored her role as a vocal advocate against paedophilia, urging for stricter measures and the establishment of a paedophile registry. Moreover, Novák said that if anyone either from the government or the opposition intends to take active steps against paedophilia she will be fully supportive of their campaign, writes Index. Notably, Novák pointed out legal provisions safeguarding the confidentiality of presidential pardon explanations.

This could also interest you:

• Read more about the Bicske case HERE.
• Read about what Katalin Novák is doing recently HERE.

Political backlash

The political scene is in flurry of outrage. The Momentum party’s leader, Anna Donáth has reacted to the President’s actions, saying that there are pardons that prove to divide the public opinion, but this is not one of them. She asserted that releasing the individual in question back into society violates all moral codes irrespective of political alignment. Donáth expressed confidence that even the most loyal government supporters would reject such a decision if fully informed.

Echoing Donáth’s sentiments, the Jobbik party called for Novák’s resignation as reparation for her reprehensible act. They also held Judit Varga, the Minister of Justice, accountable for her endorsement of the case, advocating for her removal as Hungary’s lead candidate in the European Parliament elections.

Call to action

The MSZP and the Dialogue faction joined the chorus of dissent, decrying the government’s hypocrisy in child protection campaigns and the release of Endre K. They advocate for enhanced transparency in presidential decision-making, proposing reforms to ensure public scrutiny. Meanwhile, the Democratic Coalition pushes for Novák’s impeachment, deeming her unfit for office. According to 24.hu, this procedure is however slow and has many uncertain elements, with the initial step being the collection of parliamentary signatures.

Civil society condemnation

The Association of Social Workers, along with civil servants and the Teachers Union, issued a statement condemning the pardon of Endre K. Their stance mirrors that of the Democratic Coalition, calling for greater transparency in presidential decisions. They expressed grave concerns over Endre K.’s potential reinstatement in child protection roles and stressed the paramount importance of maintaining professional integrity and ethics in safeguarding children, free from political interference. Highlighting the chronic underfunding and societal undervaluation of child protection services, they underscored the urgent need for reform.

UPDATE

• Pedophilia scandal in Hungary: opposition party writes to Pope over presidential pardon

PM Orbán reacts, President Novák insists on shocking pardon – details HERE