The right-wing Hungarian government has decided to create an independent anti-corruption authority, which the European Commission has long been calling for. The opposition today called the Orban government’s decision a step backwards in relation to Brussels. It’s just about releasing EU coronavirus aid that has been frozen due to suspected corruption.
The government intends to present the bill for the creation of the independent anti-corruption agency in parliament by 30 September, with the agency due to assume its functions on 21 November and monitor the use of EU funds.
“Joke”
The Authority intends to intervene when other competent bodies do not take the necessary measures to prevent, investigate or resolve cases of fraud, conflict of interest, corruption and other crimes and illegalities involving the use of EU funds. In addition, an anti-corruption working group must be created by December 1, also with the participation of non-governmental organizations.
Independent lawmaker Akos Hadhazy called the agency a “joke” because Orban could ultimately fill the agency with its own staff, making it by no means independent. In fact, it would be an effective anti-corruption step if Hungary joined the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, Hadhazy emphasized on the club’s radio and hopes that the EU Commission does not fall for this “false measure” by the Hungarian government.
Given high inflation and the looming economic crisis, Orban urgently needs funds from Brussels. Hungary expects €7.2 billion from the coronavirus recovery fund decided at the end of 2020. However, the EU Commission had already seen the Hungarian government as being at great risk of misusing these funds.