Budapest Mayor Spotlight as Suspect Over Pride March
Trends in Budapest’s 30th Pride Parade
Police Interviews and Legal Threats
- Police agencies interrogated the mayor, Gergely Karacsony, on Friday.
- Investigators faced a record turnout of 200,000 participants during a ban.
- Karacsony claimed the accusations were unfounded and filed a legal complaint.
Mayor’s Statements and Public Rally
- Karacsony wore a rainbow‑coated coat of arms tee to the investigative headquarters.
- He urged supporters that “freedom and love can never be banned.”
- He insisted the case would be dropped before the next election.
Background of the Ban and Parliamentary Action
- Prime Minister Viktor Orban warned of “legal consequences” for organisers and participants.
- Orban’s coalition passed new laws prohibiting the annual march.
- Budapest city hall defended the parade, arguing it could not be legally banned.
- Participants could have faced fines up to 500 euros for attending the protest.
Future Implications for the Mayor
Had the mayor been charged and convicted for organising the event, he could confront up to a year of imprisonment.
