Centre for Fundamental Rights raided by Hungarian police

The Hungarian National Bureau of Investigation (NNI) conducted a raid on the offices of the Centre for Fundamental Rights, a conservative think tank linked to the Fidesz party. The investigation focuses on suspected criminal mismanagement involving a publicly funded company associated with the center.

Authorities allege the company paid more than HUF 3.5 million gross per month to a former foreign official who is currently subject to an international arrest warrant, despite the individual performing minimal work. Police have seized contracts, invoices, and payroll records, and are questioning witnesses to determine if criminal wrongdoing occurred.

The Centre for Fundamental Rights stated it is willing to cooperate with authorities to prove it has complied with all legal requirements. Meanwhile, Fidesz has condemned the raid, labeling it a “politically motivated” action by the current government. The party specifically identified the former official as Marcin Romanowski, a former Polish Deputy Justice Minister who is wanted by Polish authorities.