Mayoral candidate of Fidesz–KDNP Alexandra Szentkirályi recently unveiled her vision for the city at a campaign event held at the Bálna Event Centre. In her speech, she articulated a seven-point plan aimed at revitalizing the Hungarian capital and freeing it from what she perceives as the influence of Ferenc Gyurcsány.
‘It’s time to put an end to the Gyurcsány show in Budapest,’ declared Szentkirályi, emphasizing the need for change in city leadership. She asserted that Budapest thrives under right-wing governance and proposed reclaiming its destiny from the hands of Gyurcsány and his allies.
Outlined in her plan are measures to
tackle corruption, streamline bureaucracy, improve transportation, and enhance cleanliness and orderliness in the city.
Szentkirályi pledged to establish the Budapest Budgetary Council to ensure fiscal stability and implement a free public Wi-Fi network. Additionally, she promised to remove all traces of what she referred to as the ‘Gyurcsány clan’ from City Hall, highlighting her commitment to transparency and accountability.
Addressing concerns about traffic congestion and urban chaos, Szentkirályi proposed initiatives such as increasing public transport frequency, establishing free and secure park-and-ride facilities at city limits, and revitalizing road maintenance efforts. She also pledged to double funding for public sanitation, prioritize graffiti removal, and address homelessness through comprehensive solutions.
Szentkirályi stressed the importance of fostering collaboration between motorists, cyclists, and public transport users to improve traffic flow and road safety. She underscored the need for a holistic approach to city management, promising to prioritize the well-being of Budapest’s residents and the preservation of its cultural heritage. In evaluating the current state of Budapest, Szentkirályi criticized what she described as the Karácsony administration’s ineffectiveness and lack of vision. She lamented the deterioration of public services and infrastructure, contrasting it with the progress made under previous right-wing leadership.
Supporting Szentkirályi’s candidacy, István Tarlós, the Fidesz–backed mayor of Budapest between 2010 and 2019, under whose leadership Szentkirályi served as Deputy-Mayor of Budapest, praised her integrity and experience in municipal governance. He highlighted her track record of effective leadership and
emphasized the importance of electing a mayor with a comprehensive understanding of the city’s needs.
Director of the Museum of Fine Arts László Baán echoed Tarlós’s sentiments, characterizing Budapest’s post-2010 development as a missed opportunity for growth and revitalization. He emphasized the need for strong leadership and continued investment in cultural institutions to unlock the city’s full potential.
Fidesz parliamentary group leader Máté Kocsis criticized the current administration’s handling of city affairs, citing concerns about urban planning and public services. He expressed confidence in Szentkirályi’s ability to lead Budapest towards prosperity and called for a return to effective governance.
As the mayoral campaign unfolds, Szentkirályi seeks to engage with Budapest residents to garner support for her vision of a revitalized and prosperous city. With the election drawing near, the future of Budapest hangs in the balance, awaiting the decision of its citizens on the direction they wish to see the city take.
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