Moment Hungarian president resigns over pardon issued in child sexual abuse

Hungary’s first woman president Katalin Novak resigned on Saturday amid public outcry over a pardon she granted to a man convicted as an accomplice in a child sexual abuse case. Ms Novák announced in a message televised on Saturday 10 February 2024 that she would step down from the presidency after being elected in 2022. She announced her decision a week after it was revealed that she had pardoned a man jailed for forcing children to retract sexual abuse claims against a director of a state-run children’s home. “I issued a pardon that caused bewilderment and unrest for many people,” Novák apologised. “I made a mistake.” Watch more on Independent TV: Click here to subscribe to The Independent: About The Independent: Making Change Happen. The Independent is the world’s most free-thinking newsbrand, providing global news, commentary and analysis for the independently-minded. Connect with The Independent: Check out our full video catalog: Videos, daily editorial and more: Click here to get the best of The Independent daily: Like The Independent on Facebook: Follow The Independent on Twitter: Follow The Independent on Instagram: Download the iOS & Android app: Help to support truly independent journalism. Every dollar you contribute will directly fund additional special reports and investigations from a free-thinking, award-winning newsroom you can trust - Subscribe to Independent Premium for exclusive content & live events: