Viktor Orban on Shaky Ground: Is the End of the Hungarian Strongman Near?
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, the man who has built an image of an unbeatable right-wing leader for decades, is now facing serious troubles. His popularity is declining, and the opposition, led by Peter Magyar, a former member of his own party, is gaining strength. Is this the beginning of the end for Orban?
Orban’s Illiberal Democracy Under Fire
Orban has spent decades dismantling liberal values, shaping Hungary into an “illiberal democracy” or a “country of Christian freedom.” His party, Fidesz, even passed a law effectively banning Pride parades, sparking massive protests in Budapest with tens of thousands of people. Despite enjoying support from powerful world leaders like Donald Trump, Orban now faces the wrath of his own people.
An Unexpected Challenger and Internal Problems
Peter Magyar, a former Orban ally, has emerged as a serious challenger. He has criticized the government for corruption, nepotism, and the decay of public services like hospitals and schools. His party, Tisa, now leads in polls with a 9 to 18 percent advantage over Fidesz. Orban’s long-standing strategy based on fear and nationalism is no longer effective.
Scandals Rocking Orban’s Rule
A recent scandal involving the pardon of a convicted child sexual abuse cover-up led to the resignation of high-ranking officials, severely damaging Orban’s claim to uphold traditional family values. Additionally, his support for ultranationalist candidates with anti-Hungarian statements has further confused his supporters.
Electoral System and Media Control
Orban changed the electoral law, reducing the number of parliamentary seats and abolishing the second round of elections, enabling Fidesz to secure a majority of votes and seats. He also appointed loyal judges to the Constitutional Court, consolidating control over the state. However, this no longer helps him maintain support.
Economy and the War in Ukraine
Hungary’s economy, heavily dependent on the German market, is stagnating, and Orban cannot deliver a better standard of living. His stance on the war in Ukraine, opposing military aid to Ukraine and its EU membership, is divisive domestically. He portrays himself as a peacemaker, but that might not be enough.
What Do the April Elections Hold?
The April 2024 elections could be decisive. Orban has about two million solid supporters, but the opposition has a similar number. The key will be the roughly 1.3 million undecided voters. At a crossroads between democratic transition and potential dictatorship, every vote will count.
Conclusion: Is Orban Losing His Grip?
Once an unbeatable Hungarian leader, Orban now faces serious challenges. His politics based on fear, control, and nationalism no longer yield results. With a growing opposition and public dissatisfaction, Orban’s era may be coming to an end. But as Hungarians say, “the ice cream will lick you back” — perhaps Orban’s rule will be devoured by those he once controlled.
What do you think? Will Orban manage to reclaim the throne, or is it time for a new era in Hungary? Drop a comment, spark a debate, or just enjoy the political spectacle!
