“Everyone must respect both democratic norms and the will of the people.” Vona issues Viktor Orbán with public debate challenge.

Open letter

Mr Chairman! We are living through a severe crisis in Hungary’s history; if not the most severe. As a result, Hungarian society faces on April the 11th not just another election: but “the” election. The people deserve the right to be possessed of the information necessary, to reaching an informed and reflective choice.

I think that Fidesz’ reluctance to having their manifesto discussed in public, probably originates in the fear that the MSZP would end up twisting or misrepresenting it. I can understand such a concern, but still find it unacceptable. As the chairman of Jobbik, and the party’s Prime Ministerial nominee, I consider debate to be something both paramount and indispensible. Everyone must respect both democratic norms and the will of the people. We cannot deprive the nation of a real debate. Yet one cannot be made a reality without the participation of Fidesz.

I can speak for both Jobbik and myself when I say that I would be more than happy, to participate in a public debate between the various Prime Ministerial nominees. If this were to end up as a five-party affair, Jobbik will of course be represented, but the most fortunate scenario would be if, not only Attila Mesterházy [the MSZP’s PM nominee], but you also, were present to engage us in argument. I say this despite the fact that the Fidesz representative chose not to attend discussions today, held between the various party campaign-coordinators, aimed at making such a debate a reality.

According to a survey conducted by a nationally regarded web-portal, the debate most people want to see now: is one between you and me. Polling research now consistently shows that it is Fidesz and Jobbik which are the two strongest parties in Hungary today.

If you were willing to engage in one with me, I would consider a public debate between us, to be conducted in a professional environment, which allowed for a respectful and collected clash of ideas: to be both necessary and important, in order to facilitate the Hungarian electorate’s reaching of a sound judgement on April the 11th.

I eagerly await your answer.

A brighter future!

Gábor Vona
Jobbik Prime Ministerial nominee

See also:
Jobbik releases 2010 English language manifesto
Fidesz appropriation of Jobbik policies continues, electorate remains unconvinced.
Jobbik: the original anti-corruption party