Sir Keir Starmer has described the defeat of Viktor Orban in Hungary's recent election as a 'historic moment for European democracy'. Hungarian voters ended Orban's 16-year tenure as prime minister, handing power to the opposition Tisza party led by Peter Magyar.
Orban, a known ally of Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, has often been a source of contention within the European Union. Prime Minister Starmer congratulated Magyar on X, stating he looked forward to working together for the security and prosperity of both countries.
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey also celebrated the result, criticising US vice-president JD Vance's involvement in the campaign. Davey remarked that 'populist extremists can be defeated' and questioned Vance's influence, noting his endorsement of Orban during a visit to Budapest.
Other MPs reacted positively on social media, with Labour's David Taylor saying 'good riddance', Neil Coyle calling it 'great news', and SNP deputy Westminster leader Pete Wishart suggesting the far right may be in retreat across Europe. Labour MP Liam Byrne commented that the outcome 'should give progressives heart everywhere', adding that if the authoritarian populist playbook can be beaten in Hungary, it can be beaten anywhere.
