Budapest Mayor Interrogated Amid Police Summons Following Pride Parade Controversy

In a striking display of tension between local governance and the national government, Budapest Mayor Gergely Karácsony faced police interrogation on Friday. This summons is tied to the recent Pride Parade that saw as many as 300,000 participants marching through the capital at the end of June. Despite the conservative government of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán having banned the event, the parade went ahead, symbolizing a collective push for freedom and rights in Hungary. As Karácsony arrived at the police station, he donned a black T-shirt adorned with the Budapest city coat of arms in rainbow colors — a bold statement reflecting his support for LGBTQ+ rights. In his remarks to supporters gathered outside the station, which numbered around 200, he emphasized that the situation transcended his personal involvement, highlighting what he described as Budapest's and Hungary's inherent love for freedom. The mayor has expressed his belief that the police action is politically motivated, indicating skepticism about whether the case would progress to actual court proceedings. The recent Pride demonstration is viewed as a defiant response to the illiberal policies pushed by Orbán’s administration, particularly a law passed by parliament in March that penalizes the public representation of non-heterosexual lifestyles under the guise of child protection. Originally, authorities threatened participants with fines of up to 500 euros; however, following backlash, they focused their investigations solely on the event's organizers. In an effort to circumvent the ban and ensure safety for the attendees, Karácsony had designated the Pride event as a municipal undertaking, thus negating the need for police approval. This incident is more than just a local dispute; it encapsulates the larger ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights in Hungary amidst a backdrop of increasing governmental restrictions. Karácsony’s remarks and actions have positioned him as a key figure in the resistance against what many view as oppressive policies aimed at silencing voices in support of equal rights and liberties. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2