Budapest, 12 April 2026 (dpa/MIA) - Hungarians are going to the polls on Sunday to elect a new parliament in elections seen as the most significant since the nation's transition to democracy in 1989.

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is seeking another term in office after 16 years in government, during which critics say he has steered Hungary toward a semi-authoritarian system.

That trajectory has put Budapest on a collision course with the European Union, while aligning the country more closely with Russia and the United States under President Donald Trump.

Orbán is being challenged by his former ally Péter Magyar, who has built an opposition force around the centre-right Tisza Party, which polls suggest has a strong chance to win the vote.

After breaking with Orbán in early 2024, Magyar founded Tisza and has campaigned relentlessly across the country, reaching beyond major cities to smaller towns and villages.

He has sought to present himself as approachable and in touch with ordinary voters, addressing concerns in a country grappling with economic stagnation.

With his promise of change, Magyar has drawn strong support from broad segments of the population and has expressed confidence he can unseat his former mentor.

Some 8 million citizens are eligible to cast their ballots. Polling stations open at 6 am (0400 GMT) and close at 7 pm.

There will be no exit polls or projections on election day, but meaningful partial results are expected late on Sunday evening.

Photo: epa