Prime Minister Viktor Orban faces the biggest threat to his authority in decades
Polling stations have opened across Hungary in what appears to be one of the largest in Europe election results this year, with Prime Minister Viktor Orban facing his biggest challenge since returning to power in 2010.
The vote could determine not only who leads Hungary next, but also how far Budapest continues to oppose Brussels on issues ranging from Ukraine and sanctions to immigration and legal disputes.
Orban and his ruling Fidesz party are opposed by Peter Magyar and his rebel Tisza party, which has come into the election after campaigning on corruption, public services and restoring ties with the European Union. Independent polling compiled by the AP suggests Tisza is heading into election day with a strong lead, although the race is still expected to be tight because of Fidesz’s rural support and Orban’s gains from power and Hungary’s electoral system.
The stakes extend beyond Hungary. Orban has spent years frustrating his EU allies position on Russiasanctions and military support for Ukrainemaking this election a closely watched test for Brussels as well as Orban’s allies on the international right.
The election is being held in one day for all 199 seats of the Hungarian Parliament, with the results expected to start appearing after voting closes at 7:00 p.m.
Follow our live coverage below for ongoing updates.
You can share this story on social networks:
Follow RT on
