Arabic version: الحكومة المجرية تواجه اتهامات بترهيب الناخبين قبل الانتخابات
Viktor Orban’s Fidesz government in Hungary stands accused of mass voter intimidation as the country approaches parliamentary elections scheduled for April 12. A documentary titled “The Price of the Vote” was released on Thursday, revealing findings from a six-month investigation conducted by independent filmmakers. According to BBC News, the film presents testimonies from voters, mayors, former election officials, and even a police officer who allege that voters are being pressured to support Fidesz through monetary incentives and other coercive tactics.
The documentary claims that 53 of Hungary’s 106 constituencies are involved, potentially affecting up to 600,000 voters. This represents approximately 10% of the expected turnout of six million. As Fidesz appears to be trailing behind Peter Magyar’s centre-right opposition party Tisza in recent polls, the allegations have raised significant concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
In rural areas, where Fidesz has maintained a stronghold since 2010, local mayors reportedly exert considerable influence over their communities. The film suggests that access to essential services such as employment, firewood, and healthcare is being used as leverage to secure votes for the ruling party. Filmmaker Aron Timar noted that the practices revealed in the film indicate a systematic approach orchestrated by senior Fidesz officials.
The government has yet to provide a comprehensive response to these allegations, with only Minister for Public Administration and Regional Development Tibor Navracsics commenting that any wrongdoing should be investigated by the Ministry of Interior. The film highlights the desperation in impoverished villages, particularly among the Roma minority, where reports of vote-buying and manipulation have surfaced.
As the election date approaches, the political landscape remains fraught with accusations of external interference and domestic plots aimed at undermining Fidesz’s chances. The documentary’s release, just weeks before the elections, has intensified scrutiny on the ruling party’s campaign tactics and the overall electoral environment in Hungary.
