Katalin Novák announced her resignation after causing public outrage with her decision to grant clemency to an accomplice of a convicted paedophile. The new head of state must be elected by the National Assembly within thirty days of the termination of the presidential mandate.

The president explained that she had accepted the presidential duties because she passionately loves Hungary, and believes in the silent majority, in honour, in upright posture, and in love. Novák acknowledged that regarding the decision of clemency, it is understandable that people expect an explanation, as the power of clemency is the most sensitive among all.

‘I have made a mistake. The lack of reasoning behind the decision of clemency was enough to raise doubts. There should be no doubts here. I would never grant clemency to anyone who harms children.

Protecting children is our shared responsibility,’

Novák stated, adding that as a Hungarian, she expects the president not to make mistakes, but if they do so, to take responsibility, even by resigning from the position.

‘I apologize to those whom I have hurt, and to every victim who may have felt that I did not stand by them. As president, I speak to you for the last time today. I resign from the position of president,’ Novák announced.

At the end of her speech, Novák thanked everyone for their high-quality work and dedication, thanked her family for their support, and her husband for helping to show that a man can support his partner just as much as a woman.

The outgoing president believes that women are also needed in public life because she thinks that over time, this world will become fairer and undoubtedly more fulfilling. ‘I am grateful for having served the Hungarian nation,’ Novák stated.

Katalin Novák was the first female head of state of Hungary after the regime change, also the youngest president in the country’s history, as she assumed the highest Hungarian public office at the age of just 44.