Prime minister confirms support for central bank governor

Budapest, May 9 (MTI) – Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has repeatedly voiced support for the governor of the National Bank of Hungary, after opposition Socialist and LMP deputies urged his removal in parliament.

György Matolcsy has “saved” forex debtors, promoted Hungary’s economic growth with a loan programme and reduced inflation, the prime minister argued and assured him of his “full” support. Without Matolcsy, he said, the economy could not have been stabilised and put on a growth course.

Related article:
COMPANIES DENY REPORT THAT MATOLCSY’S COUSIN OWNS MEDIA OUTLET NEW WAVE

Socialist MP Tamás Harangozó said that Matolcsy was associated with “industrial-scale theft and damage”, while Péter Polt, the chief prosecutor, had been “of assistance in covering up the scoundrelism”.

Orban retorted by saying that under the previous, Socialist government, “the wife of the prime minister was second in charge of European Union funds”. He also defended Polt, saying that his office was “an important buttress of the rule of law in Hungary”.

LMP co-leader András Schiffer said that Matolcsy had “financed” his own relatives through the foundations of the central bank. “Has your confidence been shaken at last?” he asked Orban.

“Matolcsy is the best possible central bank governor”, the prime minister said.

Orbán also welcomed the central bank’s endeavours to create a university, ensure scholarships to students, and “help recapture national treasures”.

“I am convinced that the goals are correct and important, it is my wish that this work continues in the central bank,” Orbán said.