**Lake Balaton Sells Out: Local Anger Threatens Orban's Rule**

A backlash over luxury property deals at Hungary's premier vacation spot could help topple Prime Minister Viktor Orban in Sunday's election. Lake Balaton, long a beloved national treasure for Hungarian families, is now at the center of a major political scandal. Critics say its shores are being sold for high-end real estate projects that benefit friends and allies of Orban's government. Local residents report feeling pushed out. They see their access to the lake restricted and their community character changed. This has created deep resentment in a key region. That anger is now a direct threat to Orban's long-held power. Political experts say the issue has united opposition voters. The Balaton controversy symbolizes wider complaints of corruption and favoritism. On Sunday, votes from this frustrated area could help the opposition achieve an unprecedented victory.