Unprecedented in the history of Hungarian democracy: opposition journalists subjected to lie detector test
In an unprecedented move, Hungary’s Office for the Protection of the Constitution has forced opposition journalists from Magyar Hang to undergo polygraph tests. The investigation stems from a now-retracted false story about Syrian dictator Bash
In an unprecedented move, Hungary’s Office for the Protection of the Constitution has forced opposition journalists from Magyar Hang to undergo polygraph tests. The investigation stems from a now-retracted false story about Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad fleeing to Hungary. Despite the pressure, the opposition journalists remain determined, vowing to stand by their work and continue reporting without fear.
Opposition journalists to take a polygraph test
As HVG reports, in an unusual move, Hungary’s Office for the Protection of the Constitution conducted investigations, including polygraph tests, on three key employees of Magyar Hang, a publication known for its critical stance towards the government. Those tested were Tamás Koncz, journalist; Csaba Lukács, the newspaper’s director; and Zsombor György, editor-in-chief. Magyar Hang revealed that this marks the first time such measures have been used against journalists in Hungary’s democratic history. Despite requesting the polygraph results, the opposition journalists have yet to receive them.
False story about Assad fleeing to Hungary
The investigation was sparked by the spread of a false story claiming that deposed Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad had fled to Hungary on a passenger plane. Initially picked up by Magyar Hang and later amplified by journalist Péter Magyar, the misinformation created a stir before being debunked. While Magyar Hang issued an apology for publishing the erroneous report, Péter Magyar did not directly apologise, merely clarifying the story’s inaccuracy after the fact. In a statement, Magyar Hang emphasised that independent journalism poses no threat to national security even when it makes mistakes. In a press release, Magyar Hang writes:
The season of Advent is all about love and reconciliation, but the Hungarian Government is using it to discredit an independent newspaper and to harass and intimidate its journalists. Our conscience is clear, we have nothing to hide. We are not afraid and we will not give up, but we will cooperate with the authorities in any way we can. Independent journalism, even if we sometimes make mistakes, is not a threat to national security.Â
Commitment to truth and transparency
Despite the scrutiny, the opposition journalists have vowed to stand their ground. They expressed hope that state authorities would handle the investigation responsibly and avoid misusing private information for political propaganda. In addition, the team reaffirmed their commitment to truth and transparency, insisting they would continue their work without fear. Magyar Hang writes:
Although we asked for it, we could not get the results of the polygraph examination. We believe that there are still people working for the state who are committed to their country, and that the details of the investigation, which also touched on private matters, will not be manipulated and distorted and published in the government propaganda press.
Read also:
- Orbán cabinet: Fake news on Syrian president’s arrival in Budapest could be coordinated secret services operation
- BREAKING: Mystery Syrian plane landed at Budapest Airport, Assad seeking Trump’s help from Budapest?
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