EP Rapporteur on Peter Magyar’s Immunity Case Dodges Questions and Flees

Krzysztof Smiszek, the European Parliament (EP) rapporteur handling Peter Magyar’s immunity case, avoided answering our questions and fled when approached. Magyar’s ongoing scandal continues to cast a shadow over the Tisza Party leader.

Tisza Party chief and MEP Peter Magyar (Photo: AFP)

Yet, the Tisza Party chief has reneged on both promises.

He took his seat in the European Parliament and has not given up his parliamentary immunity

 

Peter Magyar's political allies provide cover 

Magyar continues to stall and evade accountability, aided by Manfred Weber and the European People’s Party (EPP)—a group long known for its hostility towards Hungary. Rather than facing justice, Peter Magyar has turned to Weber for protection. Weber, a longtime critic of the Hungarian government, has frequently attacked both Hungary’s leadership and Prime Minister Viktor Orban personally, even during the time when Fidesz was still a member of the EPP.

Now, the EPP’s parliamentary group is expected to shield Magyar, ensuring that the European Parliament votes against lifting the left-wing member's immunity.

By doing so, Weber is helping Peter Magyar avoid trial in Hungary for theft. However, this support will likely come at a cost, as political favors in Brussels never go unpaid.

Ultimately, the decision on Magyar’s immunity rests with the European Parliament, which will take into account the recommendation of the Legal Affairs Committee (JURI). The process is likely to drag on for several months.

⚖@EP_Legal on 23/1:
🚨Immunities (in camera)
📒 https://t.co/QDmmw5gs5g pic.twitter.com/YwLLDEyMum

— JURI Committee Press (@EP_Legal) January 21, 2025

Cover photo: Tisza Party chief and MEP Peter Magyar (AFP)