Peter Magyar, the leader of Hungary's opposition party, Tisza, has made significant promises during a campaign rally in Budapest, vowing to tackle corruption, revive the economy, and restore freedoms to Hungarian citizens. His statements come in the wake of Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s national address, in which he criticized Magyar's party as a creation of the EU and Germany. Among current polls, Magyar's party has shown considerable support, indicating a real possibility for a successful challenge against Orban in the elections scheduled for April 12.

If Magyar's promises resonate with voters and lead to an electoral victory, this would mark a significant political shift, potentially ending 16 years of national-conservative governance characterized by frequent conflicts with the European Union, particularly over issues regarding Russia and the ongoing war in Ukraine. As the political landscape in Hungary evolves, the implications of such a transition could have reverberating effects on Hungary’s relationship with the EU and its domestic policies, especially concerning corruption and economic reforms.

Interestingly, Magyar himself was once part of Orban’s Fidesz party before he broke away to form Tisza two years ago, which adds complexity to the narrative of loyalty and opposition in the Hungarian political context. The upcoming elections on April 12 will be crucial in determining Hungary's immediate political future and broader international relations as concerns about governance, freedom, and economic stability become central themes of the electoral discourse.