Prior to the decision, at his international press conference earlier this month, the Hungarian prime minister had already stated that “The EPP is shrinking and losing influence, positions, and seats because it is heading in the wrong direction – a liberal, Socialist, centrist direction.” One thing is certain – Viktor Orbán was clearly not happy how the voting turned out in the EPP. However, a source close to the European Party told leftist daily Népszava that this result doesn’t show a clear conclusion as it assesses Poland on the same level as Hungary, and it is more about giving a judgment on the Article 7 procedure rather than the democratic performance of the two countries. The decision was also approved by around a two-thirds-majority of the EPP as well: 89 MEPs voted in favor, 35 against – besides the Hungarians- mainly Spanish, French, and Italian lawmakers. 21 abstained, including 9 CDU-CSU representatives of their 29 MEPs.Īccording to observers, the distribution of votes might indicate the extent of support Orbán’s party would get if the European party decides on their fate. The European Parliament approved the resolution on the Article 7 procedure against Poland and Hungary by a two-thirds majority last week. The division inside the party family has recently been highlighted numerous other times. The final decision is due early February at the next EPP Congress, the article writes. This means Fidesz could stay in the EPP, but unless they return to the expected line, they will remain suspended. But they also expect a clear sign of repentance from Orbán and his party. The committee was created to monitor whether Fidesz is still compatible with the values of the biggest European party.īased on information obtained by German daily Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, the “wise men” ultimately want Fidesz to remain in the People’s Party. The matter won’t be discussed at the upcoming Political Assembly in early February, according to the paper. The party family is extremely divided, highlighted by the fact that the committee of “three wise men” was unable to reach a consensus on Fidesz. The European People’s Party is likely to once again postpone its decision on Fidesz’s membership, Bloomberg writes. If this happens, Fidesz has two options: join an existing European party family or launch an entirely new initiative. Many believe that with the departure of the Hungarian ruling party, several other political groups will join them, costing many seats for the EPP. However, given the events of recent weeks, Orbán’s party will probably leave, nonetheless. The European People’s Party is likely to postpone its decision on Fidesz’s membership.
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