PREVIEW

Hungary Accuses Investigative Reporter Of Espionage. The government of Viktor Orbán has accused investigative journalist Szabolcs Panyi of spying against the state. Minister of the Prime Minister’s Office Gergely Gulyás alleged the journalist cooperated with a foreign power and shared sensitive information. Justice Minister Bence Tuzson called the case an “extraordinary situation” and a serious criminal offense. The allegations relate to reporting on Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó and his contacts with Russia. The reporter denied all accusations, calling them unprecedented for an EU country and accusing the government of acting like “an ally of the Kremlin”. The case comes ahead of Hungary’s April 12 election, with Orbán’s Fidesz trailing the opposition Tisza party led by Péter Magyar. Government officials have also suggested links between the journalist, the opposition and foreign intelligence services, including Ukraine. Press freedom concerns are mounting as critics warn the investigation could further undermine independent journalism in Hungary.
Instructions: THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT