Katalin Novák Pardon Scandal: Child Protection Case Pardon
The president pardoned a convict who covered up evidence in a child abuse case. Mass protests and resignations followed.
Key Figures
- Novák Katalin (köztársasági elnök / president)
- Varga Judit (igazságügyi miniszter / justice minister)
- Balog Zoltán (református püspök / Reformed bishop)
- Magyar Péter (ellenzéki aktivista / opposition activist)
Impact
Resignations, mass protests (50,000+), constitutional amendment, severe reputational damage
Katalin Novák pardoned Endre Kónya in April 2023, deputy director of a Bicske children's home convicted in 2019 and 2021 for coercing a victim to retract testimony in a child sexual abuse case where director János Vásárhelyi was sentenced to 8 years.
The pardon was revealed on February 2, 2024 by 444.hu. Public outrage led to mass protests with tens of thousands demanding resignations. Novák resigned on February 10, apologizing to victims. Justice Minister Judit Varga, who countersigned, also resigned.
Zoltán Balog, a Reformed Church leader and Novák's mentor who lobbied for the pardon (and nominated Vásárhelyi for an award in 2016), resigned his church position on February 16. Péter Magyar, Varga's ex-husband, released tapes alleging cover-ups. February 16 saw 50,000-160,000 protesters, severely damaging Fidesz's family-values image.