Hungary’s new PM Peter Magyar sworn in, ending Viktor Orban’s 16-year rule

Peter Magyar took his oath of office on Saturday, becoming Hungary's new prime minister and marking the end of Viktor Orban's 16-year authoritarian grip on the country. His centre-right Tisza party delivered a stunning defeat to Orban's Fidesz party in last month's election, securing a two-thirds parliamentary majority — the largest any party has achieved in Hungary's post-Communist history. In his inaugural speech to lawmakers, Magyar declared he would use his office to 'serve my homeland, not to rule' and acknowledged the millions of Hungarians who voted for change. He pledged to restore democratic institutions and governmental checks and balances that were heavily eroded under Orban's leadership, and to crack down on widespread alleged corruption.

Magyar's government is expected to dramatically transform political dynamics within the European Union. Orban had frequently used veto powers to block EU decisions, most recently on aid packages for neighboring Ukraine. The new prime minister's pro-democracy agenda signals a shift toward aligning with mainstream EU values, potentially unlocking frozen funds and easing tensions with Brussels. Outside the parliament building, crowds gathered to celebrate the peaceful transfer of power — a rare moment of democratic renewal in a region where backsliding has become common.