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Hungary has entered a new political era after opposition leader Péter Magyar and his Tisza party achieved a sweeping victory in the country’s parliamentary elections, unseating longtime Prime Minister Viktor Orbán after 16 years in power.
According to near-complete official results, Tisza secured approximately 53.6 percent of the vote, translating into 138 seats in the 199-member parliament. Orbán’s ruling Fidesz party trailed significantly with around 37.8 percent, winning just 55 seats. The outcome gives Magyar a commanding majority and potentially the two-thirds mandate required to enact constitutional reforms.
People react in the streets after the announcement of partial results of the Hungarian parliamentary elections in Budapest [Denes Erdos/AP]
Orbán conceded defeat on Sunday night, acknowledging the clarity of the results. “The responsibility and possibility of governing were not given to us,” he said, adding that he had congratulated the victorious party. His concession marks the end of one of Europe’s longest-serving contemporary leaderships.
Read more: “I Am Here to Win,” Says Viktor Orbán — Who Is Hungary’s Longtime Leader?
Celebrations erupted across Budapest, where tens of thousands gathered along the Danube River to witness Magyar’s victory speech. Addressing supporters, Magyar declared the result a turning point in Hungary’s democratic history. “Tonight, truth prevailed over lies,” he said, emphasizing unity and national responsibility.
The election also saw record-breaking voter turnout, exceeding 77 percent — the highest participation rate since Hungary’s transition from communism. Analysts say the scale of the victory reflects a strong public demand for political change and institutional reform.
Magyar has pledged to combat corruption, restore judicial independence, and rebuild democratic institutions. His leadership is also expected to shift Hungary’s stance within the European Union, aligning the country more closely with Western European partners after years of tension under Orbán’s administration.
The implications of the election extend beyond Hungary’s borders. Orbán had been a key ally of Vladimir Putin within the EU and a vocal critic of EU policies, including support for Ukraine. His departure from power could unblock financial aid initiatives for Kyiv and reshape regional geopolitics.
International leaders quickly responded to the outcome. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised the result, stating that “Hungary has chosen Europe.” French President Emmanuel Macron and other European leaders also welcomed the shift, highlighting expectations for renewed cooperation.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed optimism about future relations, emphasizing the importance of stability and collaboration across Europe.
Despite the decisive win, the extent of reforms will depend on whether Tisza secures and maintains its projected constitutional majority. If confirmed, the result could enable Magyar’s government to reverse much of Orbán’s political legacy.
As Hungary turns the page, the election marks not only a domestic transformation but also a significant moment for Europe’s political landscape.
