Former Hungarian foreign minister faces police probe over alleged bribery
Photo: Former Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó (flickr.com)
Former Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó's case has been transferred to the Budapest Police Headquarters. He is suspected of accepting a bribe linked to an appointment at Chinese automaker BYD, Index reports.
What the former minister is suspected of
The investigation into Péter Szijjártó was launched after civic activist István Tényi filed a complaint alleging possible bribery.
The complaint was prompted by the former official's new appointment at Chinese automaker BYD.
According to Prime Minister Péter Magyar, Szijjártó's appointment to a senior position at global automotive giant BYD could be a public "thank you" for facilitating the construction of the company's plant in Szeged while he served as minister.
Prosecutors said such actions could fall under provisions related to accepting an improper benefit in the interests of a business organization.
As Szijjártó is no longer a member of parliament, he no longer enjoys parliamentary immunity. If found guilty, he faces up to three years in prison.
Why the case was transferred to police
The Metropolitan Investigative Prosecutor's Office initially reviewed the complaint. However, because Szijjártó no longer has parliamentary immunity and due to the legal classification of the alleged offense, the case was transferred to the Budapest Police Headquarters (BRFK).
The decision is final and cannot be appealed.
At the same time, Hungary's parliamentary National Security Committee is reviewing potential national security risks related to Szijjártó's appointment at the Chinese company.
Scandal surrounding Szijjártó
The alleged bribery investigation is not the first legal and political case involving Péter Szijjártó since his resignation.
His decision to step down as foreign minister and join Chinese automotive giant BYD triggered a wave of investigations in Hungary.
Earlier, Hungarian authorities launched a comprehensive review of state incentives and subsidies granted to BYD with Szijjártó's support while he was in office.
In addition, Hungary's new government has begun examining the former official's possible ties to Russia. Authorities are investigating possible treason allegations against Szijjártó over his alleged secret contacts with the Kremlin.
The politician announced his decision to join BYD in July, when he left politics and gave up his parliamentary seat.
