Orban ousted as Hungary elects new leadership

Hungary’s long-serving Prime Minister Viktor Orban has been voted out of power after 16 years, marking a major political shift as the centre-right Tisza party secured a decisive victory in national elections.

Led by Peter Magyar, the Tisza party won a commanding majority in the 199-seat parliament, with projections showing it could secure up to 138 seats. The result gives Magyar the potential two-thirds majority needed to reverse constitutional changes introduced during Orban’s tenure and pursue anti-corruption reforms.

Addressing supporters in Budapest, Magyar declared the outcome a turning point for the country. He framed the election as a choice between alignment with Europe and continued isolation, promising to restore democratic norms and rebuild Hungary’s international relationships.

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Orban, 62, conceded defeat, calling the result “painful but clear.” Once celebrated by conservative movements across Europe and the United States, his leadership faced growing domestic criticism over economic stagnation, alleged corruption and strained ties with the European Union.

The election saw record voter turnout, reflecting widespread public engagement and a sense that the vote represented a defining moment for Hungary’s future direction.

The outcome is expected to have significant implications beyond Hungary. European leaders have welcomed the result, anticipating improved cooperation within the EU. The change in leadership may also unblock financial assistance for Ukraine that had previously been stalled.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy congratulated Magyar, expressing hope for stronger collaboration on regional security and stability.

Analysts suggest Hungary may now move closer to the European mainstream, although challenges remain on issues such as migration and economic reform.

Orban’s departure also weakens a key ally of Vladimir Putin within the EU and signals a shift in the region’s political landscape.