Hungary's PM Launches 'Operation Cleansing Fire' to Free Country from Orban's 'Mafia'

AI Summary

Hungary's Prime Minister Peter Magyar has launched a wide-ranging reform drive aimed at pulling the state out of the captivity into which it was forced by former Prime Minister Viktor Orban. The plan, dubbed 'Operation Cleansing Fire', includes a new constitution, purge of institutions, and establishment of a new anti-corruption office.

The Reform Drive

Hungary's Prime Minister Peter Magyar has launched a wide-ranging reform drive aimed at pulling the state out of the captivity into which it was forced by former Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

Key Measures of 'Operation Cleansing Fire'

In a fiery speech to parliament on Monday, Magyar announced a raft of economic, political and legal measures. The plan will see the Tisza Party government install a new constitution, purge the country's institutions, establish a new anti-corruption office, and unseat the president.

The Data Analysis

Citing figures that corruption has cost Hungarians 8 to 10 percent of gross domestic product in recent years, Magyar vowed that Hungary's top talent would field the new anti-corruption authority.

The Impact Analysis

Magyar's plans would see the election of a new president, for a maximum of five years, if President Tamas Sulyok is removed. A constitutional review, complete with public discussions, would, meanwhile, kick off in September and be subject to a referendum.

The Prediction

The proposed changes are part of a reform race for Magyar's government. Using Tisza's constitutional majority, he is pushing to fulfil a deal with the EU to implement reforms that would unlock a total of 16.4 billion euros ($19bn) in funds – frozen due to rule of law concerns during Orban's reign – by the end of August.