A long-standing resident of Budapest’s V. District is alleging a calculated campaign of financial pressure intended to force him out of his home to make way for a former high-ranking government official. Gábor Juhos, who has lived in the monument-protected apartment building at Magyar utca 28 for three decades, claims that János Lázár, the former Minister of Construction and Transport, is using his majority control of the building to create a “debt trap.”
The Struggle for Control at Magyar utca 28
The conflict centers on a historic building known for its panoramic views. According to the details shared by Orsolya Ferencz, a Fidesz politician and former ministerial commissioner for space research, Lázár has been systematically purchasing units in the complex to establish a residence for himself and his family when visiting the capital.
Currently, Lázár’s company owns three apartments, while Lázár personally holds titles to two others. Aside from these five properties, only Juhos’s apartment and one municipal property remain in the building.
Allegations of Financial Coercion
Juhos claims the pressure began after he ignored an initial offer from Lázár’s lawyer to purchase his home. He describes subsequent attempts to intimidate him, including requests for structural inspections and visits to his place of employment, which he views as an exercise of power.
The situation escalated in November of last year when an extraordinary general meeting was convened. Juhos alleges that Lázár used his majority position to pass resolutions that disproportionately targeted him financially.
Specifically, the meeting voted that Juhos would contribute nearly 12 million forints toward a 70-million-forint basement insulation project. His monthly common costs were increased by 69,000 forints. Juhos further claims that a subsequent meeting imposed another large sum on him, with suggestions that he take out a loan if he lacked the funds.
Political Fallout and Future Risks
Orsolya Ferencz, who released a video of Juhos, characterized these property acquisition efforts as “unworthy” of a Christian-conservative politician. She noted that Juhos had sought her help through a mutual friend, Márton Okos, in an attempt to reach a fair agreement, though such a resolution appears distant.
Juhos maintains that the renovations are unnecessary and that the financial demands are a strategy to force him into insolvency. If these payments remain mandatory and Juhos cannot meet them, his apartment could potentially be auctioned off, which he believes is the ultimate goal of the former minister.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is involved in the dispute at Magyar utca 28?
The dispute is between Gábor Juhos, a resident of 30 years, and János Lázár, the former Minister of Construction, and Transport.
What financial demands has Gábor Juhos faced?
He was asked to pay nearly 12 million forints for basement insulation and saw his monthly common costs increase by 69,000 forints.
How many units in the building does János Lázár control?
Lázár controls five units in total: three owned by his company and two owned personally.
Do you believe current co-ownership laws provide enough protection for minority residents against majority owners?
