Népszabadság warns the government that its planned electoral reform may spark unprecedented international condemnation. Magyar Nemzet’s commentator, by way of contrast, argues that any charges of anti-democratic tendencies levelled against the government are pointless, as long as Fidesz remains by far the most popular political party. READ MORE
Left wing papers call for PM Viktor Orbán and National Economy Minister György Matolcsy to resign after Moody’s downgraded Hungary to junk status. There are striking differences of interpretation, meanwhile, between the two pro-government dailies. READ MORE
A pro-government columnist accuses the left-wing of celebrating the government’s retreat from its previous strategy by turning to the IMF. She believes the current economic hardships are the result of the irresponsible policies of the former governments, whose supporters are now cynically feasting on the failure of Orbán’s strategy. READ MORE
A centrist political analysts finds the new electoral law meets democratic requirements, even though under the new system the winner seems to take all. He notes that if the popularity of Fidesz declines, the new rules would make it easier for the opposition to undo the reforms of the current government. READ MORE
Left-wing commentators consider Hungary’s intention to resume talks with the IMF as sufficient reason for the prime minister to resign, although they don’t believe he will. A pro-government and anti-IMF commentator describes the government’s move as an act of capitulation. READ MORE
As Standard & Poor’s lowers Hungary’s already negative outlook rating, Népszabadság urges the government to call off the propaganda, while Magyar Nemzet believes that the decision disregards the efforts made by the government. READ MORE
Left-wing commentators believe that the pictures commissioned by the government to illustrate the deluxe edition of the new Constitution promote a partisan political message. Some young conservative pundits also find the paintings kitschy, while an art historian defends their originality and artistic quality. READ MORE
The main pro-government daily welcomes the government’s decision to buy up the shares of the Rába automotive company, as a sign that even amidst the current financial crisis, Hungary’s leaders try to invest in the future. READ MORE
Commentators in the Hungarian media notice a turn in the government’s economic policy, and urge a compromise with financial institutions. READ MORE
Magyar Nemzet believes that the split of the Socialist Party is part of a strategy to maximize votes in the next general elections, while former PM Gordon Bajnai waits in the wings. READ MORE