JD Vance, US vice president, has defended the decision to back Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban despite Orban’s major electoral loss.
Vance also praised Orban’s challenge to the leadership of the European Union in Brussels. Few leaders in Europe had taken such a strong stance, he said. Vance said that despite the result, the United States will maintain a strong relationship with the new government in Hungary.
Peter Magyar, leader of the opposition party, wins a major victory
Peter Magyar, the leader of opposition party Tisza, won the election with a decisive victory. According to reports, his party won 137 of the 199 seats in parliament. Tisza now has the authority to change constitutional laws and reverse Orban-era policies.
Magyar criticised Vance earlier, calling his visit foreign interference into Hungary’s electoral process. After his win, however, he adopted a diplomatic approach. He called the United States a NATO key ally, and said that he was willing to engage in dialogue with US leaders if they approached him.
The Transition of Power in the Political System
Hungary’s President, Tamas Sulyok, will supervise the formation of the newly elected parliament, and nominate the next Prime Minister by mid-May.
Magyar has asked Sulyok for quick action. Magyar also criticised him for allegedly supporting Orban’s government too strongly. Magyar said he might be able to take over as Prime Minister as soon as May 5.
Media Reform Plans & Public Broadcasting Debate
Magyar has revealed his plans for reforming Hungary’s public media. This changed after his victory in the election.
Magyar refused the invitation at first and demanded a suspension of news coverage until fairness could be assured. To ensure neutrality, he proposed the creation of an independent board similar to those used by European public broadcasters.
