Peter Magyar Sworn In as Hungary's Prime Minister, Ending Viktor Orbán's 16-Year Rule

Peter Magyar was inaugurated as Hungary's new prime minister on Saturday, concluding Viktor Orbán's 16-year tenure. Magyar's center-right Tisza party secured a two-thirds majority in the April elections, winning 141 of the 199 parliamentary seats, which enables the party to amend the constitution and implement significant reforms.

In his inaugural address, Magyar stated, "Hungarian people have given us a mandate to put an end to decades of drifting. They have given us a mandate to open a new chapter in Hungary's history. Not only to change the government, but to change the system as well. To start again."

Magyar has pledged to combat corruption, restore the independence of the judiciary and media, and improve relations with the European Union. One of his immediate objectives is to unfreeze €17 billion in EU funds that were suspended due to concerns about the rule of law and corruption under the previous administration.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by hundreds of citizens who gathered outside the parliament building to witness the event on large screens. In a symbolic move, the EU flag was raised on the parliament building for the first time since its removal in 2014.

Magyar also announced plans to establish a National Asset Recovery Office to recover misused public funds and hold former officials accountable. Additionally, he intends to restructure the government by creating independent ministries for health, education, and the environment.

The new administration faces the challenge of revitalizing an economy that has recently emerged from stagnation and is under pressure from rising energy costs. Magyar's government aims to address these issues while implementing the promised reforms.