Hungary Prime Minister Peter Madyar initiates sweeping anti‑corruption purge

Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Madyar (also referred to as Péter Magyar) has begun a broad reform program called “Operation Cleanse” or “Operation Purgatory.” The initiative aims to dismantle the networks built under former leader Viktor Orbán, recover billions of euros allegedly misappropriated, and restore public assets. A new Agency for Recovery and Protection of National Assets will be created, private foundations that controlled universities and cultural institutions are slated for dissolution, and senior officials’ salaries are being cut.

The government also proposes constitutional changes, including a two‑term limit for the premier, an age limit for members of the Constitutional Court, and a law that would end the current president Tamás Sulyok’s mandate the day after the amendment is enacted. These measures are framed as a “cathartic” purge of the previous regime’s elite, with the aim of increasing transparency and aligning Hungary more closely with European standards.

The reforms have sparked heated debate in parliament, with opposition figures accusing the government of overreach while supporters claim they are necessary to end entrenched corruption and restore democratic norms.