Hungary begins hunt for corrupt regime's billions

Hungary's new government, led by Prime Minister Peter Magyar of the Tisza party, is launching an investigation into billions of euros allegedly stolen or diverted during the previous regime of Viktor Orban. The investigation, overseen by a newly established National Asset Recovery Authority (NVVH), will target assets owned by Orban's family, allies, and frontmen.

The NVVH, with broad powers and independence, will examine how public funds were used and how assets were acquired during Orban's time in office, which began in 2010. The authority will have both policing and prosecutorial powers, allowing it to investigate cases and bring charges. However, the NVVH's head, Anna Unger, a political scientist, has stated that legally binding verdicts in major corruption cases may not be possible within the NVVH's six-year term.

The establishment of the NVVH has not been without controversy. Unger's appointment, despite lacking a background in anti-corruption or law, has raised eyebrows. Some critics argue that she is not a recognized expert on the topic and that a lawyer or anti-corruption expert would have been a better fit. Despite the controversy, Unger has presented a comprehensive vision for the agency's work.