In Budapest, a significant gathering of supporters for Péter Magyar has taken place along the banks of the Danube River, celebrating his victory over long-serving Prime Minister Viktor Orbán in Hungary’s recent election.
Péter Magyar, the leader of the centre-right Tisza Party, is positioned to assume the role of Hungary’s new prime minister, potentially securing a two-thirds majority in the parliament.
Viktor Orbán, who has held the position of Prime Minister for 16 years, has acknowledged his defeat, marking the end of a tenure associated with the far-right movement that has been closely aligned with figures like former US President Donald Trump.
The preliminary results indicate that Magyar’s Tisza Party is set to secure approximately 135 seats in the 199-member parliament, achieving a critical two-thirds majority, which surpasses Orbán’s Fidesz Party.
Orbán addressed the situation at the Fidesz campaign headquarters, stating, “While the election results are not yet finalized, the overall picture is clear. This outcome is disappointing for us, but it is evident. The opportunity to govern has not been granted to us, and I have extended my congratulations to the victor.”
The conclusion of Orbán’s administration is anticipated to have far-reaching consequences, not only for Hungary but also for the European Union and Ukraine. His leadership has been characterized by a confrontational stance within the EU, which may shift under Magyar’s governance, possibly facilitating a substantial 90 billion euro ($150 billion) loan to Ukraine, previously hindered by Orbán.
Following the announcement of his victory, Magyar expressed gratitude to the Hungarian people via a post on social media, as crowds celebrated in Budapest, chanting, “We did it!”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Magyar’s win as a pivotal step toward a more integrated Europe. She remarked, “Tonight, Europe’s heart beats stronger in Hungary. The nation has reaffirmed its commitment to Europe, and the Union emerges more unified.”
Numerous European leaders congratulated Magyar, emphasizing the importance of his victory for democracy. French President Emmanuel Macron noted, “This result reflects the Hungarian people’s dedication to the values of the European Union and their role within it.” Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer termed the election outcome a “historic moment for both Hungary and European democracy.”
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed eagerness to collaborate, stating, “Let us unite for a strong, secure, and united Europe. Congratulations, dear Péter Magyar!”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed readiness to enhance cooperation with Hungary, emphasizing the need for stability and collaboration among European nations.
By the evening, voter turnout had exceeded 77 percent, setting a record for any election since Hungary’s transition from communism, as reported by the National Election Office.
After casting his ballot, Magyar conveyed to reporters that the election represented a pivotal choice for voters, contrasting the influences of East versus West, propaganda against genuine discourse, and corruption against integrity in governance.
Magyar has quickly emerged as Orbán’s most formidable opponent. The 45-year-old campaigned on critical issues affecting everyday citizens, such as the deteriorating public health and transportation systems, alongside rampant corruption in government. A former member of Orbán’s Fidesz, Magyar parted ways with the party in 2024 to establish the Tisza Party.
Since then, he has vigorously campaigned across Hungary, visiting numerous towns and holding rallies to engage with voters. In the 2024 European Parliament elections, Tisza garnered 30 percent of the vote, with Magyar successfully securing a seat as a Member of the European Parliament. Tisza is also affiliated with the European People’s Party, a prominent centre-right political coalition that includes leaders from 12 of the EU’s 27 member states.
