Hungarian prosecutors have decided not to press charges against Romulusz Ruszin-Szendi, the nominee for defense minister in the upcoming Tisza government, despite a police recommendation to do so following an altercation with a journalist.
The decision comes after Ruszin-Szendi struck a Mandiner reporter during a public event in September 2025 near Lake Balaton. The incident occurred when the journalist attempted to question him about a purported tax reform attributed to the Tisza Party. Instead of responding, Ruszin-Szendi shoved the reporter twice, an action captured on video and later published by pro-government media outlets.
Authorities initially opened an investigation into possible misdemeanor assault, but the Chief Investigative Prosecutor’s Office ultimately concluded that the legal criteria for harassment were not met. According to the office’s spokesperson, the case was dismissed due to the absence of a criminal offense, and proceedings were formally terminated.
The Somogy County Police had previously recommended filing charges, but prosecutors overruled the recommendation after reviewing the evidence. The matter was transferred to the Kaposvar Regional Prosecutor’s Office following Ruszin-Szendi’s official registration as a parliamentary candidate in February 2026.
Ruszin-Szendi served as Chief of the General Staff of the Hungarian Defence Forces from 2021 to 2023 before entering politics. His nomination as defense minister has drawn attention amid broader scrutiny of military leadership and recent reforms within the armed forces.
The incident has reignited debate over political conduct and accountability, particularly as Hungary approaches a series of local and national elections. While no charges will be filed, the episode remains part of an ongoing public discussion about the behavior of officials in positions of authority.
