Orbán admits crushing defeat as Hungary sees first change of government in 16 years

The Financial News reported that the era of Viktor Orbán, the “strongman of Europe” who has ruled Hungary for 16 years, has come to an end.
On the 12th (local time), foreign media including the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) reported that in the Hungarian general election, the opposition Tisza Party led by Magyar Péter is projected to win a landslide victory over the ruling Fidesz – Hungarian Civic Alliance. With 53.45% of the votes counted, the Tisza Party has secured 52.49% of the vote, while Fidesz – Hungarian Civic Alliance trails with 38.83%.
According to local media and partial vote counts, the Tisza Party is expected to win 135 seats, more than two-thirds of the total 199 seats in parliament.
Magyar announced on social media, "Prime Minister Viktor Orbán just called to congratulate us on our victory and to concede defeat."
The election outcome is sending shockwaves through European politics. The 62-year-old Orbán was seeking a fifth consecutive term in power but failed to withstand the surge of support for Magyar, who campaigned on rooting out corruption and improving public services.
Magyar, who entered politics only two years ago, tapped into public frustration and a desire for change, despite an economic downturn and an electoral system widely seen as favoring the ruling party.
Orbán has long described himself as the European Union (EU)’s “thorn” and has championed what he calls “illiberal democracy.” He has maintained close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin, opposed aid to Ukraine, and repeatedly clashed with the EU.
This election also drew attention because of alleged interference by the United States (US). US President Donald Trump openly endorsed Orbán and, just days before the vote, sent Vice President J. D. Vance to show support. During his visit, Vance criticized what he called meddling by EU officials, and Trump had pledged economic assistance if Orbán won.
Even immediately after voting, Orbán warned that a “major crisis” was looming over Europe and ran a campaign that stoked security fears, portraying Ukraine as a country hostile to Hungary. He defended his foreign policy by saying, "From the United States (US) to China, Russia and the Republic of Türkiye, I have many friends all over the world."
Experts say the result has put the brakes on Hungary’s slide toward authoritarianism. Andrea Szabó, a senior researcher at the ELTE Centre for Social Sciences, said, "The defeat of Fidesz – Hungarian Civic Alliance means Hungary has been prevented from moving further down the authoritarian path."
With the first change of government in 16 years, major shifts are expected not only in Hungary but also in the balance of power within the EU. Magyar, who will lead the next government, now faces the heavy task of restoring the rule of law and tackling corruption after the Orbán era.

jjyoon@fnnews.com Yoon Jae-joon Reporter