Voters in Hungary have begun casting their ballots in parliamentary elections that could end Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s 16 years in power or secure him a fifth term in office.
The vote, widely seen as the most significant since Hungary’s transition to democracy in 1989, opened at 06:00 local time (07:00 Cyprus time) and is due to close at 19:00.
Around 7.5 million voters in Hungary, along with more than 500,000 registered abroad, are choosing between five parties under a mixed electoral system that strongly favours Orbán’s governing Fidesz party.
Trump's backing to Orban
Institutes aligned with the outgoing government have predicted a victory for the Fidesz–KDNP alliance. However, signs of nervousness have emerged within Orban’s camp, despite support from US President Donald Trump.
US Vice President JD Vance visited Budapest this week, praising Orban and criticising what he described as interference from “Brussels bureaucrats”. Trump also expressed strong support, pledging to put US economic power behind Orbán and describing him as a defender of “Western civilisation” and opposition to migration.
Orban, who is seeking another term after 16 years in office, has been accused by critics of turning Hungary into an example of “illiberal democracy”.
Orban's exit would be 'a relief' to the EU
His government’s policies have repeatedly put Budapest at odds with the European Union. He has also maintained close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin and has frequently criticised EU sanctions imposed on Russia following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
While EU officials have largely avoided commenting directly on the election, one European diplomat said many member states would be relieved to see Orban leave office, adding that “patience has reached its limit”.
Orban’s main challenger is former ally Peter Magyar, 45, who has built a centrist opposition movement around his Tisza party.
After breaking with Orban in early 2024, Magyar launched an intensive nationwide campaign, focusing not only on major cities but also on smaller towns and rural areas, presenting himself as a more accessible alternative.
He has gained significant support amid economic stagnation and has said he believes he can defeat his former mentor.
No exit polls or statistical projections will be released on election day, although early indications of the result are expected late in the evening.