Czech PM Babiš Backs Orbán Ahead of Hungary Election | WPN World People News

On the eve of Hungary’s parliamentary elections, Andrej Babiš publicly expressed support for incumbent Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, adding further political tension to a vote seen as pivotal for Europe’s political landscape.

According to multiple international media reports, Hungary held parliamentary elections on April 12 to fill 199 seats. The vote is widely viewed as a crucial test of Orbán’s 16-year rule. Polls suggest that his ruling party, Fidesz, faces a strong challenge from the opposition and could potentially lose power.

Ahead of the vote, Babiš posted on social media backing Orbán, praising him for “consistently working toward a stronger Europe built on peace and the sovereignty of nation-states,” and urging voters to support his re-election.

In addition to the Czech Republic, Robert Fico, Prime Minister of Slovakia, also voiced support for Orbán, calling him a “defender of national sovereignty.” Analysts note that the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary have increasingly aligned within the European Union in recent years, particularly on issues such as Russia policy, energy, and national sovereignty—forming a more conservative and nationalist-leaning bloc.

During his time in power, Orbán has repeatedly clashed with the European Union over concerns related to the rule of law, human rights, and media freedom. He has also drawn criticism for maintaining a relatively friendly stance toward Russia. The outcome of this election is expected to influence not only Hungary’s domestic politics, but also the EU’s approach to Russia, its support for Ukraine, and the broader regional balance of power.

On the opposition side, emerging party leader Péter Magyar is campaigning on anti-corruption and reform platforms, attracting support from younger and centrist voters. Observers widely regard this election as one of the most consequential political turning points in Hungary since the end of the Cold War.