Hungary is set for a landmark political moment on 9 May, as the newly elected parliament convenes for its inaugural session and a new prime minister is expected to be elected the same day, breaking with long-standing tradition.

According to plans shared by PM-to-be Péter Magyar, the day will not only mark the formal establishment of the new National Assembly but also serve as a symbolic “system change” celebration, culminating in a large-scale public event in central Budapest.

The programme will centre around Kossuth Square and the Danube embankment in front of the Parliament building, where screens will allow the public to follow proceedings live.

Parliament convenes as prime minister to be elected immediately

The inaugural session of the National Assembly is scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM. During this session, Members of Parliament will take their oaths, parliamentary groups and committees will be formed, and key officials, including the Speaker and deputy speakers, will be elected.

Traditionally, the election of the prime minister has taken place after the inaugural sitting. However, in a significant departure from precedent, the new parliament is expected to elect the prime minister during the same session.

The vote, oath-taking, and inaugural speech of the incoming prime minister are scheduled for 3:00 PM.

The session will also include an address by the President, along with official reports on the 12 April parliamentary elections presented by the heads of the National Election Commission and National Election Office.

Symbolism and music to accompany political transition

Following the prime minister’s speech, several symbolic elements are planned. In addition to Hungary’s national anthem, the Székely (Szekler) anthem and the European anthem are also expected to be performed.

Organisers have indicated that traditional Hungarian songs, including “Tavaszi szél vizet áraszt” (the Tisza Party’s signature song), will feature in the programme, alongside performances by musicians led by Zsolt Nébl, Telex reported.

In a further symbolic gesture, the European Union flag is set to return to the façade of the Hungarian Parliament building for the first time in over a decade.

Public celebration and ceremonial events

From 4:00 PM, the focus will shift outdoors, with a ceremonial military parade and official flag-raising taking place in Kossuth Square.

The newly elected prime minister is expected to address the public once again during the outdoor event. This will be followed by a series of artistic performances and appearances by surprise guests.

The day will conclude with a large public celebration described by organisers as a “festive party” marking Hungary’s transition into a new political era.

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Political tensions ahead of the event

The announcement of the event has not been without controversy. Péter Magyar previously criticised a concert organised by Budapest Mayor Gergely Karácsony for the evening before, describing it as inappropriate and counterproductive to have a party at around the same venue the day before.

In spite of these tensions, organisers are encouraging widespread public participation, framing the day as a national celebration open to all.

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