As Péter Magyar takes his oath of office as Hungary’s new Prime Minister in the neo-Gothic parliament this Saturday, a significant gathering is anticipated in the square outside to commemorate the end of Viktor Orbán‘s 16-year tenure. Magyar’s centre-right Tisza party achieved a remarkable victory last month, defeating Orbán’s nationalist-populist Fidesz party and securing more votes and seats in parliament than any other party in Hungary’s post-Communist history.
This decisive mandate will empower Tisza to implement substantial changes to many policies that have drawn criticism and contributed to Orbán’s reputation as a far-right authoritarian leader, as well as to allow a reassessment of the economic system that has facilitated the considerable enrichment of various allies and family members of Orbán.
In advance of his official duties, Magyar has invited the Hungarian public to an all-day “regime-change” celebration scheduled for Saturday, which will mark his inauguration and the transition from the Orbán era. In a recent social media post, Magyar wrote, “We will step through the gateway of regime change with a grand celebration. We encourage everyone to join us, along with their family and friends.”
New government’s priorities
Magyar, a 45-year-old lawyer and founder of the Tisza party, has pledged to eliminate corruption in Hungary. He aims to unlock €17 billion in EU funds, frozen during Orbán’s administration due to rule-of-law concerns, a move that is critical for reviving Hungary’s stagnant economy.
Magyar plans to mend strained relationships with EU partners under Orbán and restore Hungary’s place among Western democracies. To show their commitment, Tisza officials will rehang the EU flag on the parliament building, which Orbán’s Fidesz removed in 2014.
While many Hungarians are celebrating the end of Orbán’s rule, they expect Magyar to hold Fidesz officials accountable for past misconduct. The incoming prime minister intends to establish the National Asset Recovery and Protection Office to investigate the misuse of public funds and suspend the biased news services of Hungary’s public broadcaster.
Tisza will also reform Hungary’s government structure by creating separate ministries for health, environmental protection, and education. Magyar has nominated qualified individuals for key cabinet positions, including diplomat Anita Orbán as foreign minister, former Shell executive István Kapitány as economy and energy minister, and economist András Kármán as finance minister.
The end of a regime
Magyar is scheduled to take his oath of office at 3 p.m. local time on Saturday. Following the ceremony, he will deliver remarks to the assembled crowd outside. The invitation to the event highlights artistic performances and surprise guests.
Additionally, Gergely Karácsony, the liberal mayor of Budapest, has announced a “system-closing” celebration along the Danube River. This event aims to express gratitude to the citizens of Hungary who have consistently opposed Orbán’s regime over the years.
In a social media post, Karácsony reflected on the challenges faced by many, stating, “Teachers were dismissed, civilians and journalists endured humiliation, and small churches were dismantled. We have the opportunity to move beyond this era; however, we must first acknowledge the everyday heroes and convey our appreciation as we bid farewell to the existing system.”
This article used information from The Associated Press.
