Majority of Hungarians reject idea of referendum on reforms

The majority of Hungarians reject the idea of a referendum on the government's planned reforms and austerity program suggested by opposition leader Viktor Orbán on October 23, writes Népszabadság. Based on a poll conducted by Szonda Ipsos between October 26 and 29, 55% of people do not support the idea, while 39% do.

Of respondents, 85% agree that Hungary needs reforms in order to develop, and 71% believe that austerity measures are needed to perform these reforms. The majority of opposition supporters (54%) are of the same opinion.

Those with clear party preference form their opinion according to which party they support. (Though supporters of the governing coalition - who reject the idea - have a more unified opinion than those who support the opposition.) Among uncertain voters, an abosolute majority does not agree that a referendum should be held.

Of respondents, 66% think that Orbán agrees with the importance of reforms, however, 25% believe his reason for suggesting a referendum on them is removing the government, while 23% believe it is intended to gain political power. The majority (57%) think that Orbán's party, Fidesz, is acting in accordance with its interests and not the interests of the country.

Most respondents (58%) agree that the questions of the referendum would address important issues, but 68% believe it is not worth spending Ft 5 billion on this purpose.

If a referendum on reforms was held, 42% of people would cast their ballots and 34% would stay away for sure.

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