Hungarian government focuses on former Fidesz ally in election campaign

In a surprising turn of events, Péter Magyar, the former husband of Fidesz’ ex-justice minister, has emerged as a key opposition figure against Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s government. The Hungarian government has launched a new anti-EU billboard campaign ahead of the upcoming EU elections, targeting leading EU opposition figures as servants of the Commission, with Magyar prominently featured.

Magyar, who recently launched his party TISZA, is positioning himself as a new movement against Fidesz, accusing the government of betraying its voters. He has dismissed claims that he is a puppet of Ursula von der Leyen, stating that his party believes in a European Union based on strong member states and seeks a constructive but critical relationship with Brussels.

Trained as a lawyer and former Hungarian diplomat, Magyar was previously married to Judit Varga, the former justice minister. Their divorce in March 2023 marked a turning point for Magyar, who has now become a major voice of the government’s opposition. Following the resignation of Varga and former President Katalin Novak over a scandal involving a presidential pardon, Magyar launched the TISZA party to challenge Orban’s government.

As the European elections approach, Magyar is rallying supporters for a potential shift in Hungarian politics. With a message of unity and determination, he is confident that his party can bring about change and reclaim the country from the current government. The June 9 election is seen as a crucial milestone in Magyar’s political journey, as he aims to challenge the status quo and offer a new vision for Hungary.