BUDAPEST: European Union’s long-time Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has suffered a decisive defeat, bringing an end to his 16-year tenure after opposition leader Péter Magyar secured a commanding election victory.
Preliminary results, with more than 98 per cent of votes counted, showed Magyar’s Tisza party on track to win 138 seats, comfortably surpassing the two-thirds majority needed to amend the constitution. Orbán’s Fidesz party trailed with 55 seats, while the far-right Our Homeland secured a small share.
Celebrating with supporters in Budapest, Magyar declared victory and described the result as a historic turning point, saying Hungarians had chosen change after years of dissatisfaction over governance and corruption. Voter turnout reached a record 79.5 per cent, reflecting strong public engagement in the election.
Economic reforms
Magyar, a former ally of Orbán, built momentum over two years by campaigning across the country and appealing to voters seeking political and economic reforms. He has pledged to tackle corruption, restore judicial independence, reform public services and overhaul state institutions associated with the previous administration.
Orbán acknowledged the result, calling it “clear and painful”, and thanked his supporters while signalling a period of reflection for his party. Despite the defeat, he is expected to remain in a caretaker role until a new government is formed.
The result has been welcomed by several European leaders, who see it as an opportunity for Hungary to reset relations with the European Union and unlock billions in previously frozen funds.
