A few hours before the polls closed in Hungary, record turnout of 74%, over 11% more than four years ago

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Express newspaper

12/04/2026 18:35

Voter turnout in Hungary's parliamentary elections has marked a significant increase, reaching 74.23% by 17:00 p.m., according to official data.

This level represents a new record compared to previous elections at the same time, indicating a strong mobilization of citizens in an electoral process of particular political importance. In past elections, participation at this time has been significantly lower.

Compared to 2022, participation this time is over 11 percentage points higher.

The strong increase in participation is related to the tense political climate and the importance of these elections, which are considered crucial for the political future of the country.

Analysts estimate that the high interest of voters could significantly affect the final result, while it remains to be seen whether this trend will continue until the end of the voting process.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and his main rival, Péter Magyar, cast their votes earlier in the day, surrounded by journalists and cameras, in an electoral process considered crucial for the country's political future.

Orbán declared to the media that he is “here to win” and, asked if he had underestimated his opponent, replied: “I don’t underestimate anyone.”

He also stressed the importance of respecting the constitutional order, adding that "there is a constitution in Hungary and it must be implemented. The decision of the people must be respected," according to Reuters.

According to AFP, Orbán also warned of a "major crisis" that could await Europe, adding: "Fortunately we have many friends in the world, from America to China, Russia and the Turkic world."

On the other hand, Péter Magyar called on citizens to participate en masse in what he described as a "decisive election."

He declared that the vote represents a choice between "East and West", as well as between "corruption and a clean public life".

Magyar warned that an Orbán victory would lead to the “complete collapse of public services,” while calling on voters to help “bring back EU funds” to revive the Hungarian economy. /Top Channel