Hungary faces severe crisis as resignations leave Viktor Orban in turmoil

The sudden resignations of two prominent women in Hungary have posed a major threat to Prime Minister Viktor Orban's rule. President Katalin Novak and former Justice Minister Judit Varga took responsibility for granting clemency to Endre K, a former deputy director of a state orphanage who had convinced children to withdraw their testimony against the orphanage director for sexual abuse. Endre K was one of 25 people pardoned by the president during a visit by Pope Francis last year. The scandal is particularly troublesome for a government that has prioritized the protection of children and traditional family values. In addition, the departures of these two women have led to a flood of allegations about how Orban governs the country, further undermining his power. The resignations have left Orban without two crucial allies: Novak, who was known for her support of pro-family policies, and Varga, who was expected to lead the governing Fidesz party in the upcoming European elections. Other key figures, including Orban's communications chief and a Protestant bishop, have also faced criticism. The president's clemency decision and the way the government is run are now being called into question by opposition parties, who are demanding investigations and direct elections for the next president. In response, the government and pro-government media have launched furious attacks on the opposition. Orban himself has remained silent, but he is expected to defend his position in his upcoming state of the nation address. Although the resignations have weakened his power, Orban still maintains a strong hold on the government.