Hungary’s pre-election climate has intensified following the circulation of footage allegedly depicting Peter Magyar, leader of the Tisza party, in a private sexual encounter with a former partner. Magyar has publicly denied any wrongdoing and alleged that the incident forms part of a coordinated operation against him. The ruling Fidesz party has rejected claims of involvement.
Circulation of image and video
According to reports, a photograph from a bedroom was circulated several days ago with the caption “coming soon”. The room shown is said to be the location where Magyar had a consensual sexual encounter with his former partner.
Magyar subsequently warned that a video would be released showing him engaging in sexual activity with his former partner.
Observers noted that a white powder, possibly a narcotic substance, appeared visible on a bedside table in the image.
Statement by Peter Magyar
On 12 February, Magyar denied any use of narcotics and claimed that his former partner, Evelin Vogel, had lured him into a trap. In a video posted on social media, he alleged that the government of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán organised the operation using methods associated with secret services.
Magyar acknowledged that he visited the apartment shown in the photograph in August 2024 and stated that he and Vogel had a consensual sexual relationship, which ended shortly afterwards.
He said: “That night I did not realise that I was the victim of a secret service operation, so I allowed myself to be carried away. Later, however, I realised that I had fallen victim to a classic Russian blackmail tactic. However, given that I did nothing illegal, my conscience is clear.”
Magyar stated that other individuals present at the apartment had alcohol and possibly narcotics with them. He denied personally using drugs and said he is prepared to undergo a drug test.
He further stated: “I do not know how the images and recordings that were illegally captured in the apartment using secret service equipment will be manipulated, but I suggest that the entire recording made in the room be made public without cuts.”
He added that Prime Minister Orbán is targeting his family in an attempt to exert psychological pressure on him.
Allegations of political pressure
Magyar said: “The leaders of Fidesz know that this week I have my sons with me, as our campaign begins next week. They wanted to destroy this period and subject me to even greater psychological pressure so that I would make a mistake. They will not succeed.”
The Fidesz party has denied any connection to the leak of the video.
Current opinion polls place the Tisza party ahead with 35% compared with 28% for Fidesz among voters who are not undecided.
The developments occur as the election campaign intensifies.