Tuesday, January, 07,2025

Hungary's President Katalin Novak resigns over pardoning man convicted in child sexual abuse case

Budapest: Hungary's President Katalin Novak resigned on Saturday after growing pressure for pardoning a man convicted of being involved in conspiring to conceal an instance of a sex abuse case in a children's home, according to Al Jazeera.
Announcing her resignation, Novak said, "I made a mistake...Today is the last day that I address you as president," she said in a speech broadcast on state television.
"I made a decision to grant a pardon last April, believing that the convict did not abuse the vulnerability of children whom he had overseen. I made a mistake as the pardon and the lack of reasoning was suitable to trigger doubts over the zero tolerance that applies to paedophilia," she added.
On Friday, at least a thousand protesters demonstrated in the nation's capital, calling for her resignation. Opposition parties in Hungary also called for her resignation.
Ahead of Pope Francis's visit in April 2023, Novak made the decision to pardon some two-dozen people in April 2023, including the deputy director of a children's home who had assisted the former director in hiding his wrongdoings.
In 2022, Endre K was given a sentence of three years and four months in prison. She also had a five-year ban from engaging in any activities or working in any capacity related to minors. However, Novak was freed and, permitted to return to his profession after receiving a pardon, according to Al Jazeera.
Novak is Conservative Prime Minister Viktor Orban's former family minister and ally. She was also the youngest person to ever hold the position and the first female president in Hungary's history.
Her resignation from the presidential post was a rare instance of political unrest for Fidesz, the nationalist party that has governed Hungary since 2010 with a constitutional majority.

  Share on

Related News

visit e-papers

आज का राशिफल

image

Aries

Today brings opportunities for growth, but you'll need to stay focused. Trust your instincts to navigate challenges.

image

Pisces

Your intuition will guide you. Trust your feelings and explore creative outlets for peace of mind.

image

Aquarius

Innovation is your theme today. Explore unconventional ideas to solve lingering problems.

image

Capricorn

Hard work pays off today. Your dedication and discipline will lead to well-deserved recognition.

image

Sagittarius

Adventure is calling! Embrace new opportunities, but keep a balanced approach to risks.

image

Scorpio

Your determination will be unmatched. Dive deep into tasks, but don't forget to take breaks to recharge.

image

Libra

Harmony in relationships is your priority. Compromise and understanding will strengthen your bonds.

image

Virgo

Focus on organization and details. A well-planned day will lead to productive results and personal satisfaction.

image

Leo

Leadership will come naturally. Take charge of situations but remain humble for the best outcomes.

image

Cancer

Emotional balance is key today. Spend quality time with loved ones to find comfort and clarity.

image

Gemini

Today is perfect for networking and sharing ideas. Your adaptability will help you tackle unexpected changes with ease.

image

Taurus

Patience will be your strength today. Financial matters might need attention, so think twice before making big decisions.