Orbán’s challenger Péter Magyar denounces his ex-girlfriend, expels her from his party

Péter Magyar, leader of the Tisza Party and a political challenger to Viktor Orbán, is embroiled in a scandal involving his former partner, Evelin Vogel. Magyar announced that Vogel had been expelled from the party and reported to the police over alleged blackmail and extortion attempts. The case, marked by secret recordings and financial demands, has stirred significant attention, raising questions about internal party conflicts and potential political fallout. Vogel denies the accusations, framing the issue as an attempt to tarnish her reputation.

Péter Magyar denounces his ex-girlfriend

Péter Magyar’s statement detailed that Evelin Vogel was expelled from the Tisza Party after repeatedly threatening him and other party members. The politician claimed that Vogel demanded HUF 30 million (EUR 73,200) in exchange for not releasing compromising recordings that she had secretly obtained. Magyar admitted that he had hesitated before making the report, given their previous relationship, during which he had even proposed to her. However, he emphasised that Vogel’s actions—which he characterised as blackmail for financial gain—left him with no choice but to involve law enforcement.

In a separate interview with Index at the end of September, Vogel countered these accusations by stating that Magyar was “not who he appears to be.” Magyar responded by reiterating that Vogel’s attempts to extort money began in May and included threats to damage his reputation and that of the party. He further disclosed that he had been aware of secret recordings made by Vogel and had already planned to report the matter.

Recordings were made by Vogel

During a press conference held on Sunday, Magyar elaborated that Vogel had covertly recorded conversations involving him and other party members. He alleged that she demanded financial compensation to withhold these recordings from public release. Additionally, Magyar noted that new online platforms, including a website, YouTube channel, and Facebook page, appeared to be under development, with the purpose of disseminating damaging information about him and the Tisza Party.