In Hungary, man threatened with three years in jail for removing LGBT flags

Hungarian flags on Budapest's Elizabeth Bridge, Hungary. Photo: Mi Hazánk Mozgalom on Facebook

In Hungary, a 58-year-old man who removed dozens of LGBT flags from Budapest's Elizabeth Bridge could face a fine of nearly 2.6 million forints and up to three years in prison if found guilty of causing significant property damage, reports The European Conservative.

The incident occurred amid controversy over the placement of LGBT symbols in the Hungarian capital ahead of the Budapest Pride, scheduled for June 27. The city's liberal mayor, Gergely Karácsony, had previously ordered so-called Progress Pride flags to be hung on the bridge, which, in addition to rainbow symbolism, include elements related to transgender and intersex agendas, as well as racial minorities.

Videos appeared online showing the man removing the flags from the bridge and throwing them into the Danube. Following a complaint from the city hall, police identified the suspect and questioned him. According to the publication, the man admitted to his actions and stated that he was proud of what he had done and would do it again, as he had acted in accordance with his personal convictions.

Representatives of the nationalist movement "Our Homeland" (Mi Hazánk) expressed support for the man. The party's vice president, Előd Novák, stated that the movement was prepared to pay any potential fines and also promised to present the man with an "Award for Public Courage" at the "Family Pride" event, organized as an alternative to the LGBT pride parade.

After the LGBT flags were removed, activists from the youth wing of Mi Hazánk placed Hungarian national flags on the bridge. However, footage soon appeared online allegedly showing a person throwing one of them into the Danube. Police launched an investigation, and representatives of Mi Hazánk announced their intention to file complaints over vandalism and desecration of a national symbol.

Previously, the UOJ reported that an Anglican bishopess repented for "persecution" of LGBT people.

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