"Ókovács treated the Opera House as a feudal lord" – Gyula Harangozó criticized the institution's operation and the previous leadership.

Gyula Harangozó criticized the Hungarian State Opera's operations and former director Szilveszter Ókovács, highlighting issues of professionalism and financial misconduct. He expressed hope for positive changes following Ókovács's dismissal but warned against retaining his appointed staff. Harangozó described Ókovács's leadership as autocratic, claiming he manipulated the honorary membership process and dismissed constructive criticism. He noted that Ókovács treated the Opera as his domain, punishing dissenters and fostering a culture devoid of professional dialogue. Harangozó stated that Ókovács's financial irregularities were just the tip of the iceberg, reflecting deeper systemic issues within the organization.