03.05.2026 09:21
Prime Minister Peter Magyar, who ended Orban's 16-year rule in Hungary, decided to appoint his brother-in-law Mellethei-Barna as Minister of Justice. While the decision sparked political debate, Magyar argued that the criticism is understandable but that Mellethei-Barna is a meritorious figure with a legal background, international career, and party history.
Hungary's new Prime Minister Peter Magyar has come to the fore with his decision to appoint his brother-in-law as justice minister. The decision sparked debate among the opposition and former ruling party.
16-YEAR ORBAN ERA ENDS
The Tisza Party, led by Magyar, won the April 12 elections by a clear margin, ending Viktor Orban's 16-year rule. The 45-year-old politician is preparing to take over.
APPOINTS BROTHER-IN-LAW AS MINISTER
Magyar announced that he will appoint his sister's husband, Mellethei-Barna, as justice minister. The decision was strongly criticized, especially by members of Orban's party, Fidesz.
“CRITICISM IS UNDERSTANDABLE BUT…”
Responding to the criticism, Magyar stated that the concerns are understandable but emphasized that Mellethei-Barna married his sister after joining his political movement. Magyar also defended the appointment decision, saying, “The domestic and international career, highly qualified work, and vision of the future justice minister are indisputable.”
AMONG THE PARTY'S FOUNDERS
It was reported that Mellethei-Barna, a legal expert, has known Magyar since their university years. Mellethei-Barna, who was among the 10 founding members of the Tisza Party established in 2020, served as the party's legal director.