Hungary’s Secretary of State for International Communication, Zoltán Kovács, took to social media recently to call out the European Parliament (EP), accusing it of hypocrisy in its handling of a controversial Italian MEP and its broader approach to Hungary’s legal and political matters.
The target of Kovács’ criticism is Ilaria Salis, an Italian left-wing MEP, who has a checkered past involving violent offenses in Hungary. Kovács pointed out that Salis, who entered the EP under legal immunity after being elected, has used her position to publicly criticize Hungary. Kovács wasted no time addressing the situation, posting on social media, “So let me get this straight: Ilaria Salis, who nearly beat people to death on the streets, escapes justice by sneaking into the European Parliament—and now lectures Hungary on the rule of law?”
However, Kovács’ criticism extends beyond Salis herself to the European Parliament’s LIBE Committee, which recently visited Hungary to discuss matters related to civil liberties and justice. Kovács dismissed the visit as a “pre-written verdict”, accusing the committee of advancing a political agenda rather than conducting legitimate oversight. He argued that the LIBE Committee’s approach was not about improving the rule of law but about pushing a hostile narrative against Hungary.
“This is not oversight. This is a political smear campaign,” Kovács stated, asserting that the committee has no mandate to interfere in the internal affairs of EU member states.
The Hungarian government’s frustration with what it sees as Brussels’ overreach has been ongoing. Kovács pointed out that the European Parliament often defends liberal activists under the guise of championing civil society, while disregarding the sovereignty of member states like Hungary.
“Is it any wonder that Prime Minister Viktor Orbán didn’t meet with them?” Kovács asked, highlighting Orbán’s decision to avoid engaging with the committee during their visit. He added, “Would you take lessons on justice from someone elected just to avoid prison?”
Hungary’s message is clear: while the country remains committed to its EU membership, it is unwilling to tolerate what it views as politically-motivated attacks disguised as human rights advocacy. “Hungary won’t take orders from criminals in suits,” Kovács boldly concluded, reflecting the nation’s defiance of what it perceives as external interference in its internal affairs.
