‘We can and we will win the European Parliament elections,’ Prime Minister Viktor Orbán stated during his address at a Fidesz–KDNP parliamentary group gathering in Balatonalmádi on Wednesday.
Orbán noted the potential for significant shifts in the international landscape throughout the year, but until June, ‘we will navigate against prevailing headwinds,’ he warned. Drawing upon the analogy of experienced sailors, he remarked that such challenges are not to be feared but embraced, as they provide opportunities for advancement, as reported by Magyar Nemzet. The Prime Minister conveyed optimism regarding the prospect of change, not only within Brussels but also in Washington, come 2024. He asserted that within nine months’ time, their collective strength would surpass its current level.
Orbán also addressed the parliamentary elections due in 2026, emphasizing the importance of diligent effort: ‘It is therefore imperative to continue our work diligently, as each European Parliament seat secured will contribute to
the collective strength that will bolster our position in the parliamentary elections in 2026,’
stated the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister also addressed the clemency scandal that has been the focal point of public discourse in recent weeks. He extended gratitude to former Justice Minister Judit Varga and former President Katalin Novák for their contributions as public officials. Both politicians had to step down following the President’s decision to grant a pardon to the deputy director of the Bicske children’s home, who had aided the home’s director in covering up paedophilic offenses. Orbán asserted that the decision was not influenced by any underlying issues but rather stemmed from a mistake. ‘I have already elucidated the reasons behind this mistake during the State of the Nation address: it holds true that, even at the highest level, no one is wise enough on their own,’ he emphasized. The Prime Minister underlined that it has become evident to all that there is no clemency on the national front regarding child protection issues.
Orbán also stressed the necessity for change in Brussels:
‘The migration pact has been enforced in Europe, and Hungary will face repercussions for its stance against accepting migrants. The war will not end, Europe will be under increasing pressure because the disputes in America over the presidential elections will lead to a reduction in financial support for Ukraine. Additionally, backing the Ukrainians entails significant political ramifications. Farmers are revolting across Europe, and no one is beginning to believe in the Ukrainians’ victory,’
the PM said, as he outlined the challenges confronting our continent.
Moreover, PM Orbán underscored that the Hungarian left is failing to fulfil its duties, asserting that the left is not representing Hungary’s interests in Brussels, but rather advocating for Brussels’ agenda in Hungary.
The current two-day meeting holds particular importance for various reasons. The main focal points of the agenda include the parliamentary group’s decision on the selection of a new candidate for the head of state, preparations for both the European Parliament and local elections, and the consideration of the new child protection bill.
Furthermore, Máté Kocsis, the leader of the Fidesz parliamentary group, has recently signalled his intention to request the Speaker of the Parliament to include the ratification of Sweden’s accession to NATO on the agenda. Swedish
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson will meet Viktor Orbán in Budapest on Friday
to discuss the matter. ‘It will be my pleasure to welcome Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in Budapest this Friday. We are planning to discuss how to strengthen the defence and security policy cooperation between Hungary and Sweden, as well as our plans for the Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the European Union, and the EU’s Strategic Agenda,’ Viktor Orbán wrote on X.
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