Transparency International has learned with astonishment that an article under the title „TI’s new executive is a biased journalist” was published in the October 22 edition of Magyar Nemzet. This title gravely misrepresents Transparency International Hungary and József Péter Martin, the executive director of the organization appointed in June 2013. Not only is the label „biased” entirely unfounded – the article itself fails to come up with evidence that could lead to such a conclusion.

Transparency International has been active in Hungary for several years, deservedly earning itself a solid professional and public renown. It is of pivotal importance for the Hungarian chapter of Transparency International to distance itself in equal manner from any political party. Being unbiased is one of the organization’s core values. Transparency International Hungary confronts any ruling power with objective and reasonable critique, and, in fortunate cases, is a valued advisor of decision makers in the fight against corruption.

Transparency International
Budapest, 4 November, 2013.