Magyar to meet Hungarian president as Trump says next PM ‘a good man’
Péter Magyar Set to Meet Hungary’s President Amid Political Shift
Péter Magyar, the political figure who ousted Viktor Orbán after 16 years in power, is scheduled to meet Hungary’s president to expedite the transition of leadership. This meeting comes following a decisive election win that swept the ruling Fidesz party from office. President Tamás Sulyok, who has resisted Magyar’s call to resign, is anticipated to announce him as the next prime minister. Magyar aims to secure his position by early May, emphasizing his desire to restore democratic governance in the country.
Magyar’s Media Campaign and First Public Appearance
Magyar’s first appearance on state radio and television in 18 months occurred on Wednesday, where he declared his plan to halt news coverage by the media outlets he accuses of promoting propaganda. He criticized the Hungarian media for being controlled by Orbán allies, claiming they spread 300 lies daily and denied his party a single platform for visibility. The public service media, now under his scrutiny, will reportedly be restructured to prioritize press freedom.
“Every Hungary deserves a public service media that broadcasts the truth,” Magyar stated during the interview. He stressed that his actions were not driven by personal vendettas, despite frequent insults directed at him and his family.
Trump’s Endorsement and Political Tensions
US President Donald Trump described Magyar as a “good man” during a recent interview with ABC News, despite Magyar’s role in challenging Orbán’s leadership. Trump noted that the incoming prime minister would likely perform well, adding that Hungarians should support Orbán, whom he had previously endorsed. Magyar, however, remains focused on dismantling Orbán’s policies, which have transformed Hungary into an “electoral autocracy” according to the European Parliament.
EU Funding and Economic Challenges
The European Union has suspended €17bn in funding due to concerns over rule of law and other governance issues. Magyar recently engaged with Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission president, to address the freeze and unlock the funds. Hungary is also awaiting approval for an additional €16bn in defense loans. Meanwhile, Orbán is expected to serve as caretaker prime minister during an upcoming EU summit in Cyprus, where leaders are pushing for the reversal of his veto on €90bn in Ukraine aid.
Orbán’s Response and Political Reorganization
Orbán, who has faced a significant electoral defeat, has remained largely silent but hinted at rebuilding his political base. On Facebook, he stated: “The work begins. Let’s reorganize ourselves and keep fighting for the Hungarian people!” Despite his party’s loss, Magyar’s challenge to the media and governance structure remains a focal point for restoring democratic norms in the country.
