Reports from Hungary suggest that censorship has returned to that country with a vengeance not seen since the overthrow of communism. In recent days, thousands of anti-government protesters have taken to the streets in Budapest demanding an end to what they regard as repressive policies instituted by the government of Viktor Orban. According to published reports, Laszlo Szabo, communications director of Hungary's state broadcasting network Magyar Televisio (MTV) resigned. Daily Variety said his resignation was triggered by the decision of Editors to digitally alter an image of a former Supreme Court Justice who had fallen out of favor with Hungary's ruling Fidesz party after publicly criticizing Orban. Last months two reporters for the station went on a hunger strike to call attention to alleged political meddling. Their protest was ignored by the state Media Council, whose members are all nominated by Fidesz.

06/01/2012