European leaders cheer as Péter Magyar wins surprise Hungarian election

Budapest was alive with celebration until the early hours of Monday (April 13), as the city transformed into a festive atmosphere. People filled the streets dancing and cheering, supporters gathered outside pubs, and the sound of honking cars echoed throughout the العاصمة, creating a jubilant mood of victory. Supporters of the opposition Tisza party took to the streets to celebrate their sweeping win in Sunday’s crucial election.
According to preliminary data, voter turnout reached around 80 percent, marking a record. The result brought an end to the 16-year rule of right-wing Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Many in the capital believe this political shift signals a return to a European path and the restoration of democracy, which they feel had been gradually eroded since 2010.
Budapest’s iconic Chain Bridge was illuminated in the colors of Hungary’s national flag. Along the banks of the Danube River, tens of thousands gathered, waving national and European Union flags, and celebrating with champagne in paper cups.
One Tisza supporter, Szilvia, expressed deep emotion, saying she had waited and prayed for this moment for 16 years. She added that she never truly believed it would happen, and now feels incredibly happy.
Celebrations extended into the city’s metro system, where passengers sang and chanted “It’s over.” Outside the parliament building, crowds continued celebrating throughout the night in a rave-like atmosphere.
Another supporter, Sandor Zoletnik, described it as a huge celebration and expressed hope that the new leadership would serve all Hungarians, as promised.
A group of young people shared their excitement, saying they had long awaited change and now finally feel hopeful that Hungary can move in the right direction.
Recent surveys indicate that support for the Fidesz party has significantly declined among younger voters. Only about 8 percent of those aged 18 to 29 support the party, with relatively low support also seen among those aged 18 to 39.
Following the election, traffic came to a halt on major boulevards as crowds overflowed onto the streets. Many people remained on the bridges over the Danube late into the night, waving flags and celebrating the historic moment.