Voter Turnout in Hungary Surpasses 2002 Record

Voter turnout in Hungary’s elections has surpassed the record set in 2002 by 17:00, according to the National Electoral Office. A total of 74.23% of eligible voters had cast their ballots by that time, compared with a final turnout of 70.53% in 2002.

In the previous elections in 2022, turnout at the same point was below 63%. Polling stations are scheduled to close at 19:00.

The main contest is between Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s ruling Fidesz-KDNP bloc and the opposition Tisza party led by Peter Magyar.

Orban has indicated he would step down only in the event of a significant defeat, while Magyar is calling for peaceful change in the country.

(reuters, sak)