Thread by @ZgutEdit

History unfolded today in #Hungary: #Orbán got a #conservative #catholic political newcomer to fight in 2022. @markizaypeter now faces an unprecedented uphill battle since the regime undermined #democracy w/ #informalpower and created a grossly uneven playing field. Thread 🧵1/6

Orban built a hybrid #autocratic state governance in which #cronies/relatives are monopolizing state/EU funds for his benefit. He established additional sources through which he could cement political/economic power even if Fidesz will be replaced by the opposition.2/6

The integrity of the 2022 #elections is in danger as the regime developed new ways to co-opt the process. Besides putting financial pressure on the opposition, it used a network of agents like citizen’s Police for coercive vote-buying, targeting the most deprived electorate 3/6

Orbán takes further steps to cement power both legally and informally. The gov submitted a proposal to “clarify” regulations re: the chief prosecutor’s election/removal from office. Keeping Polt in the office is key to maintain lack of investigations/selective law enforcement 4/6

The President of the #Hungarian #Media Authority has unexpectedly resigned to allow #Fidesz to choose her successor for another 9 years w/ 2/3 majority. Mónika Karas's mandate would have expired only after the elections. She provided a smooth sailing for #mediacapture 5/6

🔥#DavidandGoliath context applies more than ever to #MZP/ the opposition in a political environment lacking any mutual #toleration. Victory will require extraordinary skills/dedication to overcome #informal pressures. For more, see my paper👉 bit.ly/3pjiFdg @gmfus END