The political landscape in Hungary is experiencing a significant shift as opposition leader Peter Magyar launches a campaign aiming to challenge the long-standing rule of Prime Minister Viktor Orban. With a focus on tackling corruption and steering Hungary back towards its European roots, Magyar is presenting himself as a formidable contender in the approaching elections.
Hungary: who is Peter Magyar?
A 44-year-old former lawyer, Magyar has accused Orban’s right-wing populist government of mismanaging Hungary’s economy and social services, and of allowing corruption to run rampant, thus leaving Hungary one of the poorest countries in the European Union.
“Not only has the Hungarian economy not taken off; it has hit a dead end,” he said.
He has also criticized Orban’s antagonism towards the EU and continuing proximity to Russian President Vladimir Putin despite Russia’s ongoing invasion of neighboring Ukraine.
After holding meetings with several European leaders at the Munich Security Conference (MSC) over the weekend, he said he would put an end to Hungary’s “drift out of the European Union” under Orban.
“Hungary’s place is in Europe,” he said. “Not only because Hungary needs Europe, but also because Europe needs Hungary.”
However, he also reiterated that a Tisza government would continue to oppose any accelerated Ukrainian accession to the EU and retain a border fence erected by Orban in 2015 as part of a continuation of anti-immigration policies.
Hungary: Magyar pledges to combat corruption
Despite some EU skepticism, Magyar has vowed to combat corruption and strengthen Hungary’s democratic institutions and independent judiciary in order to regain access to billions of euros’ worth of suspended EU funding.
“It is time to call corruption what it is: theft,” he said, promising “total transparency in contracts involving public funds” and the “recovery” of all the money Hungary “has been deprived of over 16 years.”
During the campaign so far, Magyar has specifically targeted Orban’s traditional strongholds: small, conservative-leaning towns and villages across the country but far away from major cities like Budapest, focusing on bread-and-butter issues such as low wages and rapidly rising living costs.
He has challenged Orban to a TV debate – thus far without response – saying the “outgoing prime minister” is only capable of “agitation” and “threats,” accusing him of spying on opponents.
“If they can search through my private life, then they can rummage through everyone’s,” said Magyar.
Orban: work only ‘half done’
Opposition and rights groups regularly accuse Orban of silencing critical voices in the judiciary, academia, and media, as well as cutting the rights of minority groups.
Just this weekend, local authorities in Budapest once again permitted the staging of the annual neo-Nazi “Day of Honor” gathering while clamping down on small anti-fascist counter-demonstrations instead.
The ruling Fidesz party hasn’t published an official election manifesto, arguing that, after governing for 16 years, voters know what policies to expect.
Orban on Saturday vowed to press on with a crackdown on what he called “pseudo-civil organizations, bought journalists, judges, politicians,” saying his work was only “half done.”
Key Takeaways
- Peter Magyar aims to challenge Viktor Orban’s 16-year rule.
- Magyar’s Tisza party gained significant traction in recent elections.
- He has pledged to combat corruption and enhance democratic integrity.
- Magyar emphasizes Hungary’s rightful place in Europe.
- Orban’s government faces accusations of silencing dissent.
- The upcoming election is set for April 12.
FAQ
Who is Peter Magyar?
Peter Magyar is the leader of the center-right Tisza party and a former member of Viktor Orban’s Fidesz party.
What are Magyar’s main campaign promises?
Magyar promises to combat corruption, increase transparency, and realign Hungary with Europe.
When are the elections in Hungary?
The elections are scheduled for April 12.
How has Orban responded to opposition?
Orban has vowed to continue his policies and has dismissed political challenges as inconsequential.
What does Tisza mean?
Tisza stands for respect (tisztelet) and freedom (szabadsag) in Hungarian.
The political scene in Hungary is witnessing a critical moment as the election approaches, with Magyar presenting a platform that seeks to address longstanding issues facing the country. As both sides gear up for the elections, the outcome remains uncertain but potentially transformative for Hungary’s future.
