Budapest Mayor Karácsony Discusses Tisza Reforms as Hungary Moves Toward Electoral Overhaul

Budapest Mayor Gergely Karácsony told the Klasszis Podcast that the municipal sector must be patient with the Tisza‑government agenda and await the appointment of a state secretary for local governments. He said a draft "Budapest Law" is expected by the end of the year after a June 3 meeting with Minister Viktória Lőrincz and leaders of 23 municipal associations, where a 23‑point proposal on funding and autonomy was presented. Karácsony also noted ongoing talks with Transport Minister Dávid Vitézy on infrastructure investment and raised the possibility of a water‑fee increase to boost local revenues.

In a separate parliamentary session, State Secretary György Velkey announced that the government will draft a significantly more proportional electoral system and will involve parties outside parliament in the process. He criticised the current system as shaped by the ruling party and said the reform is part of an autumn‑starting constitutional process. The session was marked by a heated exchange between MPs Melléthei‑Barna and Bence Tuzson over alleged remarks, and further allegations concerning payments to a witness in a separate case were raised, though the accused denied the claims.