Hungarians vote in hard-fought election that could oust Viktor Orban after 16 years

"Hungarians are heading to the ballot boxes to vote in a hard-fought parliamentary election that could oust Viktor Orban after 16 years in power and potentially reshape the central European country's relations with the EU, Moscow and Washington."

"Orban argued that the country's biggest threat is the war in Ukraine and he alone is capable of keeping the peace, while Magyar focused on domestic issues, with pledges to crack down on corruption, repair the strained relationship with the EU and funnel funds to the country's crumbling public services."

"Most polls have put Magyar's party in the lead. Analysts have expressed caution, however, as undecided voters and Hungarians abroad could still sway the result, as could alleged vote-buying."

Hungarians are participating in a pivotal parliamentary election that could remove Viktor Orban from power after 16 years. Orban faces a strong challenge from Peter Magyar, a former member of his Fidesz party. Global rightwing leaders, including US officials, are rallying support for Orban. The election highlights contrasting campaign focuses, with Orban emphasizing external threats like the Ukraine war, while Magyar addresses domestic issues such as corruption and EU relations. Polls indicate Magyar's party may lead, but undecided voters and potential vote-buying could influence the outcome.

Read at www.theguardian.com