Hungary’s Péter Magyar was sworn in as the country’s new prime minister on May 9, 2026, officially ending Viktor Orbán’s 16-year autocratic rule. The inauguration ceremony took place in Budapest after Magyar’s center-right Tisza party won a stunning landslide victory in last month’s parliamentary elections, gaining 141 of the 199 seats in parliament.
Why it matters: Magyar’s ascension marks a historic shift in Hungarian politics, bringing an end to Orbán’s long-standing dominance. His government is expected to restore democratic norms and tackle corruption, reshaping Hungary’s role within the European Union.
- Magyar's Tisza party defeated Orbán’s nationalist-populist Fidesz party, which saw its representation drop from 135 to just 52 seats.
- In his inaugural speech, Magyar emphasized his commitment to serve the nation, stating, "I will not rule over Hungary - I will serve my country."
- His administration aims to restore governmental checks and balances heavily eroded during Orbán's tenure.
Driving the news: The swearing-in ceremony drew tens of thousands of supporters to Kossuth Square outside the parliament, where celebrations were held. The crowd waved Hungarian and EU flags, marking a symbolic return to pro-European sentiment.
- Magyar called on Hungarians to step through the "gateway of regime change," urging unity among citizens.
- He promised to confront the past and hold accountable those involved in corruption under Orbán’s administration.
- Magyar plans to establish a National Asset Recovery and Protection Office to investigate and recover misused public funds.
State of play: With Tisza controlling a two-thirds majority, Magyar's government is positioned to roll back many of Orbán’s controversial policies, including those that strained Hungary’s relations with the EU.
- Magyar has pledged to repair ties with the EU, which had deteriorated under Orbán, who often vetoed key EU decisions.
- One of Magyar's top priorities is unlocking approximately €17 billion ($20 billion) in EU funds frozen due to concerns over rule-of-law violations.
- The EU flag was raised at the parliament for the first time since Orbán’s government removed it in 2014, symbolizing a renewed commitment to European integration.
The big picture: Magyar’s victory reflects a broader desire for change among the Hungarian populace, who have expressed frustration over economic stagnation and corruption.
- Many voters, particularly the 3.4 million who supported Tisza, expect accountability for the alleged misconduct of the outgoing administration.
- The new parliament includes a record number of women lawmakers, with 54 women representing more than a quarter of the total seats.
- Supporters at the celebration expressed hope that this new government would address long-standing issues in education and public services.
What they’re saying: Various voices from the crowd articulated their hopes for the new administration, emphasizing the need for change and accountability.
- Andrea Szepesi, an economist, remarked, "Finally, women are able to participate in this new, beautiful democratic system and the flourishing of the country."
- Erzsébet Medve, a teacher, stated, "This is the first time I feel like it’s good to be Hungarian," highlighting the emotional significance of the moment.
- Another supporter, Áron Farsang, said, "I expect the new Tisza government to restore Hungary’s democratic institutions and lead us back toward the European Union."
By the numbers: The electoral shift is stark, with Tisza’s rise marking the most substantial change in Hungary’s political makeup since the end of communism.
- Tisza now holds 141 seats, compared to Fidesz’s 52, a dramatic reduction from their previous majority.
- The new assembly features 54 women lawmakers, the highest in Hungary’s post-communist history.
- Magyar’s government faces a challenging economic backdrop, with a budget deficit swelling and public services in dire need of reform.
Between the lines: Magyar's administration is under pressure to deliver on its promises, especially concerning economic recovery and anti-corruption measures.
- Magyar has vowed to address the economic challenges left by Orbán, including high inflation and a stagnant economy.
- His government is expected to face resistance from entrenched Orbán loyalists across various sectors, including media and academia.
- Public sentiment remains cautiously optimistic, with many hoping for tangible improvements in daily life.
What’s next: As Magyar begins his term, the immediate focus will be on forming a government and implementing reforms to restore public trust.
- Magyar has called for Orbán-era appointees to resign by the end of May, signaling a swift move to dismantle the previous administration's influence.
- The new government aims to initiate discussions with EU officials to access previously frozen funds and improve Hungary’s standing in the bloc.
- May 31 is a key deadline for resignations, as Magyar seeks to establish a clean break from the past.
Magyar’s inauguration marks a turning point for Hungary, with the potential to redefine its future direction both domestically and within the European community.