Hungarian Competition Authority faces allegations of political influence

Investigations based on interviews with dozens of current and former employees suggest that the Hungarian Competition Authority (Gazdasági Versenyhivatal, GVH) has experienced increasing political influence during the Fidesz government's 16-year tenure. Reports indicate that the authority's independence has gradually diminished between 2010 and 2026.

Specific instances of this influence include the government designating certain corporate transactions as having ‘national strategic importance,’ which bypassed standard competition oversight. This mechanism was reportedly used nearly two dozen times, affecting major deals such as the creation of the Bankholding, MVM transactions, and the acquisition of Vodafone by 4iG and the state. Additionally, the formation of the Central European Press and Media Foundation (KESMA) was not subjected to a standard competition investigation due to this designation.

Former leadership, including President Rigó Csaba Balázs and Deputy President Tóth András, have been noted by staff for their perceived political alignment. Observers suggest this did not necessarily mean every decision was a direct political order, but rather that the leadership operated with high political sensitivity, often adopting communication styles and messaging consistent with government campaign slogans rather than purely professional technical language.