Hungary's new prime minister appoints brother-in-law as minister
The appointment of his brother-in-law as Minister of Justice in the cabinet formed by Péter Magyar after taking office as prime minister has sparked controversy in the country. Emphasizing merit in response to the criticism, Magyar announced that his sister would resign from her position as a judge to prevent debates over the separation of powers.
12punto
Péter Magyar, who ended Viktor Orbán’s 16-year rule, has announced his new government. However, one of the most talked-about names in the cabinet is his brother-in-law, who was appointed to the seat of the Ministry of Justice. While stating that the public concerns arising from family ties are understandable, Magyar argued that the appointment was made entirely based on competence. He also expressed that this decision created an extremely difficult dilemma for him as well.
The Prime Minister said, "My decision was based on preparedness rather than political settling of scores. What matters is who can best represent a fair and principled Hungary. After Orbán’s party damaged the rule of law, it was important that this historic and major task be carried out properly."
SISTER TO RESIGN FOR SEPARATION OF POWERS
One of the most striking steps in Magyar’s cabinet announcement was the declaration that his sister, Anna Ilona Melléthei-Barna, who is the wife of the newly appointed Minister of Justice, will resign from her position as a judge. The Prime Minister emphasized that this step was taken to ensure that the principle of separation of powers is not overshadowed and to avoid ethical debates. In a statement on social media, he described his brother-in-law’s professional competence as "unquestionable."
The new government is planned to take office on May 9, Europe Day. During this period, Péter Magyar has accelerated diplomatic talks to resolve issues with the European Union, primarily regarding the rule of law, and to ensure the resumption of frozen EU funds to the country. Having met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in recent days, Magyar is focusing on taking concrete steps to normalize Hungary’s relations with the EU.
Brussels expects progress from the Hungarian government, particularly regarding the Ukraine crisis and compliance with democratic standards. May 9, the date Magyar will take office, is seen as a symbol of a new beginning in Hungary’s relations with the European Union.