Budapest Pays $2.7 Million Monthly for Goverment “Screening Expert”
Budapest, Hungary – The Budapest city government is paying László Domokos a gross monthly fee of HUF 2.7 million (approximately $7,200 USD) to conduct a financial review, a contract totaling HUF 17.19 million (approximately $45,700 USD) through December 31, 2025, according to data released in response to a public interest request. Domokos was appointed by the Ministry of Public Governance and Regional Development (KTM) as a “screening expert” following government negotiations with the capital city amid concerns over it’s budget.
The appointment comes after Budapest faced a potential bankruptcy earlier this summer, temporarily averted by a court ruling. The government initiated the review to assess whether funds allocated to the city, notably a HUF 89 billion (approximately $237 million USD) “solidarity contribution” from the Minister of National Economy, are being used responsibly. KTM officials stated the goal is to ensure “taxpayers’ money [is] not poured into a non-bottomless well,” according to reports following negotiations with Budapest Mayor Gergely Karácsony.
The KTM confirmed no tender or selection process was used for Domokos’s appointment, stating the government “decided to provide the expert background” and issued a letter of credentials. The review’s outcome is highly likely tied to the continued disbursement of the solidarity contribution, raising questions about the independence of the assessment and its potential impact on Budapest’s financial stability.