European Parliament stands firm against Viktor Orbán's push to strip immunity from rival

On September 23, 2025, the European Parliament committee in Budapest voted against lifting the legal immunity from prosecution for Péter Magyar, a significant political opponent of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. The request to remove Magyar's immunity was part of a broader political strategy aimed at discrediting opposition leaders ahead of the Hungarian elections set for April. Orbán's government accused Magyar of various offenses, including theft and defamation, which many observers believe were politically motivated attempts to undermine the opposition amidst criticisms of the ruling party's handling of the economy. The failure to lift Magyar's immunity is indicative of ongoing tensions between Hungary's government and the European Parliament. Orbán, who has faced scrutiny for perceived authoritarian measures, expressed outrage at the parliamentary decision. He took to social media to label the outcome as disgraceful, accusing the European Parliament of siding with his political rival. The ramifications of this decision extend beyond just immunity; it raises questions about the integrity of democratic processes and the independence of political opposition in Hungary. Additionally, the committee's rejection also included the preservation of immunity for other lawmakers, including Hungarian opposition party leaders and an Italian lawmaker facing prosecution in Hungary. This collective decision emphasized the European Parliament's commitment to safeguarding democratic values and the rights of its members against persecution. The instances reflect a wider concern about political repression in Hungary and criticisms against Orbán's government. As the political climate heats up ahead of the elections, analysts are observing how these legislative actions will influence public perception and voter sentiment. The European Parliament's decisions signal a stand against what many view as an authoritarian trend in Hungary, reiterating its role in maintaining the rule of law and protecting political freedoms within the European Union framework.