Hungary is holding parliamentary elections on Sunday that could potentially end Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s 16-year tenure. Voting will continue until 7:00 PM, with initial results anticipated later in the evening.
According to electoral authorities, voter turnout reached a record 37.98% within the first five hours, marking a 12% increase compared to the previous elections.
Leading in most polls is opposition candidate Péter Mándy, who heads the newly formed Tisza party after departing from the ruling Fidesz party. Following his vote in Budapest, Mándy stated that if elected, he would strengthen Hungary’s position within the European Union and NATO while intensifying efforts against corruption.
Orbán, who also cast his ballot, expressed confidence to reporters, asserting, “I am here to win,” and emphasized that he does not underestimate his opponent.
Prior to the elections, both parties exchanged statements, with Orbán accusing the opposition of attempting to seize power “at any cost,” while Mándy urged voters to resist “pressure and blackmail” from the government.
The opposition promises a “regime change,” a reset of relations with the European Union, and a cessation of close ties with Russia. Meanwhile, Orbán maintains support from U.S. President Donald Trump, who previously encouraged Hungarians to vote for their “friend and winner.”
In his campaign, Orbán has focused on his confrontational stance against Brussels and the ongoing war in Ukraine, asserting that Hungary will not sacrifice its children, weapons, or finances.
The Hungarian parliamentary elections represent a critical juncture for Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, with high voter turnout and a strong challenge from the opposition. Péter Mándy aims to reshape Hungary's international relations and combat corruption if elected.