Growing Discontent Challenges Orbán’s Grip on Power in Hungary
OROSLÁNI, Hungary – After 15 years of dominance, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán faces a credible challenge to his rule in upcoming elections, fueled not by geopolitical concerns but by mounting economic hardship among voters. While Orbán retains a base of staunch support, a growing number of Hungarians are expressing willingness to consider alternatives, particularly Péter Magyar and his Tisza party.
The shift in sentiment stems from a widespread feeling of economic strain. Hungary’s electoral system, which favors conservative ethnic Hungarians abroad and presents hurdles for expatriate voters, means Magyar’s party will likely need a significant nationwide victory to unseat Orbán. The campaign is expected to intensify, with opposition figures fearing manipulation of the system to maintain the status quo and potential repercussions for those who challenge the ruling fidesz party.
In Oroslani, a town where both the mayor and member of parliament are Fidesz members, the economic pressures are palpable. Virág Varga, a factory operator and mother of two, explained her disillusionment: “We gave Viktor Orbán a chance for 15 years.But now our wages are worth nothing compared to the prices in the shops. They are exploiting us fully.” She expressed a tentative hope for Magyar, stating, “We don’t know him well yet, but we want to believe in him.”
Though, loyalty to Orbán remains strong in the area. János Cheri, a retired mine welder battling a lung disease, affirmed his continued support for Fidesz, dismissing Magyar as “not an honest man.” He voiced concerns about alleged ties between Magyar and Ukrainians, echoing narratives circulating in pro-government media. Thes sentiments were echoed by other elderly residents, some of whom openly expressed hostility towards Magyar.
Election experts suggest Magyar’s Tisza party must achieve a meaningful lead in the April elections to overcome the structural advantages built into Hungary’s electoral system,which includes allowing mail-in voting for conservative ethnic Hungarians in neighboring countries while restricting it for more liberal expatriates elsewhere.
Concerns over potential election interference are rising, with some urging citizens to prepare for protests similar to Ukraine’s 2014 Maidan revolution should fraud occur. Opposition politicians also fear retribution, including anti-corruption trials and asset confiscation, if Orbán’s party loses power.
