Viktor Orbán’s 16-year grip on power has come to an end, with a system often labelled an “electoral autocracy” collapsing after a decisive defeat by 45-year-old former insider Péter Magyar, who persuaded a majority of Hungarians that change was needed.
“We did it,” Magyar told jubilant supporters gathered by the Danube.
“Together we have brought down the regime.”
With more than 98% of votes counted, preliminary results show his Tisza party heading for a remarkable 138 seats, compared to 55 for Orbán’s Fidesz and six for the far-right Our Homeland. The result puts Magyar on track for the two-thirds majority required to undo key reforms introduced under Orbán.
Over the past two years, Magyar built momentum by campaigning across towns and villages, tapping into frustration over corruption and entrenched patronage. Turnout reached a record 79.5%, reflecting the scale of public engagement.
Orbán, who had secured four successive electoral victories, conceded defeat, describing the outcome as “clear and painful” and thanking supporters who remained loyal.
Magyar has pledged sweeping reforms, including overhauling education and healthcare, restoring judicial independence and dismantling the patronage networks that defined Orbán’s rule.
via BBC
