In brief
At 45, Peter Magyar has emerged as a formidable contender against Viktor Orban in Hungary's upcoming elections. Emphasizing urgency with the slogan 'Now' and focusing on corruption and economic improvements, Magyar is reshaping the political narrative in a country long dominated by Orban. Despite his controversial past affiliations, his dynamic campaign strategy has garnered considerable attention as he visits constituencies nationwide.
Now or never, Peter Magyar has been telling Hungarians, in a breathless campaign across the country in the run-up to 12 April elections that opinion polls suggest he can win. This 45-year-old former Fidesz party insider represents the biggest threat to Viktor Orban's rule in Hungary since he won the first of four consecutive victories in 2010.Magyar's slogan dates back to a revolutionary poet's 19th Century rallying cry to rise up for the homeland. After more than 100 campaign stops, his message has been shortened to Now: the words or never have been crossed out, adding to the urgency. He is on course to visit all of Hungary's 106 constituencies and has given four, five, even six speeches a day. Magyar has built a powerful support base in over two years of touring the country, even in the small towns and villages where Fidesz traditionally dominates.Last year he walked 300km (185 miles) from Budapest to the Romanian border in a campaign to 'reunite' the nation, seeking to bring natural Fidesz voters to his side. Magyar promises to tackle corruption, improve the economy, and woo Hungary's disadvantaged Roma community, also pledging to unlock billions of euros in EU funds frozen due to concerns over Hungary's rule of law.However, Orban has depicted him as a puppet of the EU and Ukraine, asserting that his party is the true party of peace. His self-confidence stems from a deep understanding of the rival he faces. Until February 2024, Magyar was part of the Fidesz family, joining the party at university and marrying one of its rising stars, Judit Varga.In February 2024, Magyar stunned Hungarians with a live appearance on a pro-opposition YouTube Channel, explaining his discontent with his party amidst a scandal involving a presidential pardon linked to sexual abuse cover-ups. His direct challenge to Orban's long-held power resonates with many constituents looking for change, fueled by his past experiences and insider knowledge of the political system.Facing accusations and smear campaigns, Magyar remains steadfast, proclaiming that this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for change, not just for himself, but for the future of Hungary.
