Péter Magyar’s election landslide has ended Viktor Orbán’s 16-year rule in Hungary. The system, described as an “electoral autocracy,” is reportedly in disarray, defeated by a 45-year-old former party insider. Addressing cheering supporters near Budapest’s Danube River, Magyar declared that they had collectively overthrown the Hungarian regime. Preliminary results, based on over 98% of counted votes, indicate that Magyar’s Tisza party is on track for a commanding 138 seats. In contrast, Orbán’s Fidesz party is projected to receive 55 seats, while the far-right Our Homeland secured six seats.
Magyar spent two years building his movement, holding rallies across villages, town squares, and cities. During these events, he rallied Hungarians who expressed frustration over years of endemic cronyism and corruption. On Sunday night, Magyar noted that the unprecedented turnout of 79% of the electorate was historically significant for democratic Hungary. He also stated that no single party had ever received such a strong mandate.
Orbán’s rule was built on four successive election victories and sweeping majorities, but these victories concluded within a short period. The upheaval was marked by the public declaration of the transfer of power and the perceived fall of the established political order.