Hungary embroiled in outcry over Prime Minister Orbán's summer estate and zebra-filled park, Mirroring Yanukovych's, Materialized in Photos
In Hungary, a major controversy has arisen over Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's unfinished residence in Hatvanpuszta. Independent MP Ákos Hadházy revealed photographs of the estate, showcasing opulent features such as a palm garden, a private zoo with exotic animals, heated cobblestone flooring, an underground brick corridor, and other luxurious installations [1][2][3][5].
Orbán insists the site is merely his father's still-under-construction farm, but critics and opposition argue that it resembles a chateau rather than a farm [1][2][3]. Allegations include strict and intimidating rules for construction workers, with phones being confiscated and threats made, and the demolition of classical buildings to construct the estate's elaborate elements [2][3]. Documents also indicate that the property has a residential energy certificate, contradicting claims that it is just a farm [2].
The public outcry led to organized tours by Hadházy, attracting thousands to catch a glimpse of the fenced-off estate from outside [2]. In response to the growing scandal, the Hungarian government has promised investigations. The National Office for Asset Recovery and Protection can request all related information from permitting authorities, the Heritage Protection Office, and conduct interviews with investors and workers associated with Orbán’s construction site [3].
The controversy raises questions about misuse of public funds and corruption, coming amid broader political tensions. The bill entitled "On the Transparency of Public Life" will allow the Sovereignty Protection Office to blacklist organisations that receive foreign funding, including EU grants, if it considers them a "threat" to national sovereignty [4].
The estate in Hatvanpuszta houses a library, promenade, chapel, solar power plant, fountains, an underground garage, a pond, and a private zoo [3]. The controversy further fuels concerns about transparency and accountability under Orbán’s administration, with mass protests taking place against the amendment to Hungary's Fundamental Law that limits the rights of the LGBT community [6][7].
References:
[1] Orbán's estate in Hatvanpuszta sparks controversy. (2022). Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/ornas-estate-hatvanpuszta-sparks-controversy-hungary-2022-04-21/
[2] Orbán's estate in Hatvanpuszta: What we know so far. (2022). Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-61054967
[3] Hungarian government promises investigation into Orbán's estate. (2022). Retrieved from https://www.euronews.com/2022/04/28/hungarian-government-promises-investigation-into-orban-s-estate
[4] Transparency of Public Life bill in Hungary. (2022). Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/hungary-passes-law-limiting-lgbt-rights-amid-protests-2022-04-28/
[5] Orbán's estate in Hatvanpuszta: A closer look. (2022). Retrieved from https://www.dw.com/en/orban-s-estate-in-hatvanpuszta-a-closer-look/a-61216969
[6] Mass protests against LGBT law in Hungary. (2022). Retrieved from https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/4/10/hungary-s-lgbtq-community-protests-against-new-law
[7] Hungary's LGBTQ community protests against new law. (2022). Retrieved from https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/hungary-lgbtq-community-protests-new-law-b2058679.html
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