A left-wing commentator sees no obstacle that could thwart the government’s endeavour to build an ‘illiberal democracy’, but warns corrupt acolytes that they might fall victims to it. A conservative pundit, on the other hand predicts that negative campaigning against the government will prove self-defeating. READ MORE
A left-wing columnist lambasts the government after it was announced that the first Paks loan drawdown has been repaid. A liberal pundit, on the other hand, claims that the government’s decision is reasonable, and that the Russian loan may at some point become a favorable option for Hungary again. READ MORE
A student in the leading pro-government daily claims that high school students who demand the reform of the education system have no credible ideas and serve the interest of the opposition parties. A left-wing columnist, on the other hand, finds the students’ demands legitimate and reasonable. READ MORE
Commentators agree that the chances of the left are meagre, as its rather weak and scattered forces seem unable to coalesce, although over half the parliamentary seats (106 of 199) can be won in individual constituencies in a ‘first past the post’ system. READ MORE
A left-wing commentator explains that the Prime Minister of Romania resigned for reasons unconnected to the Hungarian protest against his statement on the Szekler flag. READ MORE
OpEd contributors in the left-wing national daily disagree about whether or not the opposition should boycott the parliamentary election in April. One author argues that a boycott would force the outside world to act, while another retorts that ‘the game must be won on the pitch’. READ MORE
Left-wing commentators agree that the opposition has little chance to defeat Fidesz in the next election, and wonder whether the Left should boycott the ballot. READ MORE
A left-wing sociologist thinks that the Left has little chance of boosting its popularity before the 8 April election, as it lacks a credible vision as well as charismatic leaders. READ MORE
A left-wing commentator lambasts Horst Seehofer, leader of the CSU for calling Hungarian Prime Minister a democrat. A pro-government pundit, on the other hand, hopes that Bavaria will join the coalition of the Visegrád countries and help Europe return to its core national and religious values. READ MORE
Commenting on Wednesday’s visit by Poland’s PM to Hungary, the left-wing newspaper sides with the European Commission in its controversy with the governments of Poland and Hungary. READ MORE