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Media: Oligarchs Linked to Orbán Rush to Hide Wealth

Media: Oligarchs Linked to Orbán Rush to Hide Wealth

From Delfi · (11m ago) Lithuanian Critical tone

Translated from Lithuanian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Oligarchs associated with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán are reportedly rushing to move their assets abroad following the opposition's election victory.
  • Funds are allegedly being transferred to countries in the Middle East, Australia, and Singapore, with some high-ranking officials seeking U.S. visas.
  • Peter Magyar, whose party secured a significant win, has warned that these oligarchs are attempting to shield their wealth and evade accountability before the government transition.

Budapest, Hungary – As Hungary prepares for a significant shift in political power following the opposition's decisive election victory, a flurry of activity is reportedly underway among individuals closely tied to the outgoing Orbán administration. Reports suggest that oligarchs who amassed fortunes during Viktor Orbán's 16-year rule are now scrambling to move their wealth out of the country, seeking refuge in foreign jurisdictions.

Sources indicate that substantial assets are being transferred to nations such as Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates, with other destinations like Australia and Singapore also being considered. Adding to the urgency, several high-ranking officials connected to the Fidesz party are allegedly exploring avenues to obtain U.S. visas, potentially seeking employment within MAGA-affiliated institutions. This exodus signals a palpable anxiety among those who benefited most from the previous regime's economic policies, particularly concerning public procurement contracts and EU-funded infrastructure projects.

Oligarchs associated with Viktor Orbán are transferring tens of billions of forints to the United Arab Emirates, the United States, Uruguay, and other distant countries.

— Peter MagyarThe leader of the Tisza party warns about the movement of assets by individuals linked to the outgoing government.

Peter Magyar, the leader of the opposition Tisza party, has publicly warned that these oligarchs are acting swiftly to protect their assets and avoid future repercussions. He has urged the chief prosecutor and heads of police and tax inspection agencies to take immediate action to 'detain the criminals' and prevent their escape to countries where extradition might be difficult. Among those reportedly considering departure are figures like Lőrinc Mészáros, a close associate of Orbán whose business empire grew exponentially during the Fidesz era. The speed and scale of these asset movements underscore the deep-seated concerns about accountability and the potential for illicit enrichment that have characterized the Orbán years.

I was informed that several oligarch families have already left the country. According to reports, several influential oligarch families have already deregistered their children from schools and arranged for their protection when leaving.

— Peter MagyarPeter Magyar provides further details on the alleged departure of oligarch families from Hungary.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Delfi in Lithuanian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.