The European Parliament’s Legal Affairs Committee convened once again today in Brussels, with Krzysztof Smiszek, the Polish MEP in charge of Peter Magyar’s immunity case, in attendance. Smiszek has consistently refused to comment on the matter, claiming he cannot speak until the legal process is complete. Instead of providing substantive answers, he has repeatedly avoided questions—at times even dodging behind his assistant in an attempt to walk away undisturbed. In a blatant attack on press freedom in Brussels, Smiszek’s assistant even shoved one of our journalist from Magyar Nemzet, telling them to leave the MEP alone.
Despite Magyar Nemzet's persistent efforts, today Smiszek again refused to answer when our Brussels correspondent asked about the apparent political maneuvering surrounding Peter Magyar immunity case. We also inquired whether he believed Magyar should voluntarily renounce his immunity—but the rapporteur fled without responding.
Peter Magyar can't shake shadow of his scandal
Back in June 2024, Peter Magyar, a newly elected MEP from the Tisza Party, caused a scene at a Budapest nightclub while heavily intoxicated. Witnesses say he acted disrespectfully towards both men and women, making provocative gestures and harassing guests. One guest who started recording the politician's actions said that Magyar snatched their phone and threw it into the Danube River.
Following the incident, an investigation was launched on suspicion of vandalism and theft. In response, Hungary’s Chief Prosecutor Peter Polt requested the suspension of Magyar’s parliamentary immunity so that legal proceedings could move forward.
Peter Magyar reneges on promises
During his European Parliament election campaign, Magyar repeatedly vowed to abolish the right to parliamentary immunity and declared that he would never use it. However, now facing legal trouble, he is hiding behind the very immunity he once criticized. Throughout the spring, Magyar spoke at multiple public forums condemning the concept of immunity for politicians, arguing that it served no purpose. He pledged that
he would do away with the right to immunity, would personally waive his own immunity and face any legal proceedings without hesitation.
At a later event in Derecske, he reaffirmed these promises—even stating that he would not accept his MEP mandate.
