Viktor Orban's Fidesz government in Hungary stands accused of mass voter intimidation in a film released ahead of the April 12 parliamentary elections, in which the ruling party is trailing in the opinion polls.
The Price of the Vote documentary presents the results of a six-month investigation by independent filmmakers and reporters, showcasing testimonies from voters, mayors, former election officials, and a police officer claiming that large sums of money and even illegal drugs are being offered to pressure people to vote for Fidesz.
According to the film, 53 of Hungary's 106 constituencies, potentially affecting up to 600,000 voters or 10% of the expected turnout, are targeted. After 16 years of Fidesz rule under Orban, recent polls indicate that the party is trailing opposition leader Peter Magyar's Tisza party.
Testimonies highlight a system where local mayors maintain control over daily lives, offering essential services and resources in exchange for votes. The film paints a disturbing picture of rural Hungary dominated by the Fidesz party, where allegations of coercive practices such as withholding medical prescriptions or firewood have been reported.
The documentary's recent release comes with less than two weeks before the election, amid accusations from Fidesz that foreign elements are attempting to undermine their electoral success.
While Fidesz officials and Prime Minister Orban have dismissed the allegations as unfounded, the growing evidence presented in the film raises critical discussions about the integrity of the electoral system in Hungary as the country prepares to head to the polls.
