The fine concerns not only the party but also the issue of democracy and Hungary as whole because it shows that ruling Fidesz “wants to sweep away the only enemy that has stayed on its feet”.

Earlier this week ÁSZ accused the party of having accepted over 330 million forints (over EUR 1m) in illegal financing.

The president of State Audit Office (ÁSZ) is László Domokos, who was member of the Hungarian National Assembly (MP) in Fidesz fraction.

The fine could prevent Jobbik from running in next year’s parliamentary elections, Vona said, adding that there is no forum to appeal against ÁSZ procedures.

In response to a question whether businessman Lajos Simicska or any of his companies had offered to help Jobbik pay the fine, he said there were no talks about that and Simicska was not providing financial support for Jobbik.

Vona said he could not tell how much money Jobbik had at its disposal but it cannot be excluded that some staff would have to be fired and party offices closed if the fine is imposed.

Asked whether the party would encourage its supporters to protest in the streets, the Jobbik leader said this would not happen before the final ÁSZ report has been published. In line with the law, Jobbik can only accept donations from Hungarian citizens, he added.

Republished with permission of Hungary Matters, MTI’s daily newsletter.