Péter Magyar to meet Hungarian President as Trump Lauds New Premier
Péter Magyar, the figure instrumental in ending Viktor Orbán's extensive 16-year tenure as prime minister, is scheduled to meet with Hungary's President, Tamás Sulyok. The meeting aims to facilitate a swift transfer of power following Magyar's commanding victory on Sunday, where his Tisza party secured a 'super-majority' in parliament.
Magyar's Policy Agenda and Media Reform
President Sulyok is widely expected to nominate Magyar as the next prime minister, with Magyar expressing a desire to assume office by approximately 5th May. In his inaugural appearances on public radio and television in 18 months, Magyar outlined his intention to suspend the current news coverage, which he has criticised as propaganda, and establish a new broadcast authority to ensure press freedom. He stated, "Every Hungarian deserves a public service media that broadcasts the truth."
International Reactions and Economic Challenges
US President Donald Trump described Magyar as a "good man" and predicted he would "do a good job," a notable shift given Trump's active campaigning for Orbán previously. Domestically, Magyar's rise follows widespread public discontent over corruption and cronyism under Orbán's administration, which he asserts has significantly depleted the nation's resources.
A critical focus for Magyar will be unlocking billions of euros in European Union funding that have been frozen due to concerns over rule of law. He has already engaged with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on this matter, with approximately €17 billion (£14.8 billion) currently suspended and an additional €16 billion in defence loans pending approval. Von der Leyen underscored the need for "swift work to be done to... restore the rule of law. Realign with our shared European values."
Furthermore, Magyar is expected to address Hungary's veto on €90 billion in aid to Ukraine, a position he has indicated he deems irrelevant. Orbán, meanwhile, has remained largely silent since the election, posting on social media his intention to "reorganise ourselves and keep fighting for the Hungarian people!"
