Could Hungary’s radical opposition Mi Hazánk step aside for Fidesz? Claims of behind-the-scenes talks surface

Speculation is mounting in Hungary’s political arena after opposition leader Magyar Péter claimed that negotiations are underway between the ruling Fidesz and the radical far-right Mi Hazánk Mozgalom. According to Magyar, the talks could result in Mi Hazánk withdrawing candidates in dozens of constituencies in favour of the governing party ahead of the upcoming election, which would be quite interesting since the party is firmly positioning itself as an opposition force.

Speaking during a campaign stop in Szentendre, Magyar alleged that these potential withdrawals would come “in exchange for various offers and deals”, Telex reported.

Lázár’s remarks fuel speculation

The rumours gained further traction following recent comments by János Lázár, who suggested earlier this week that so-called “sovereigntist” forces (including Fidesz and Mi Hazánk) should consider closer cooperation in the future.

Although Lázár acknowledged ideological differences, particularly regarding Hungary’s EU membership, his remarks signalled that some level of coordination might not be off the table. The minister has previously maintained working relations with Mi Hazánk leader László Toroczkai on specific policy issues, which further fuelled perceptions of alignment between the two camps.

Mi Hazánk denies official deal, but leaves door open

Despite the growing speculation, Toroczkai has publicly rejected the idea of a formal agreement. He insisted that party candidates have been instructed not to withdraw in favour of any other political force.

At the same time, he conceded that individual candidates could still come under pressure or be persuaded to step aside, suggesting that isolated cases cannot entirely be ruled out. This ambiguity has done little to quell suspicions about possible coordination at the local level.

A long-standing pattern of alignment?

The debate is not without precedent. Observers have long pointed out that Fidesz and Mi Hazánk often vote together in parliament on key issues. In addition, Mi Hazánk figures are among the most frequently invited opposition voices on state television, where opposition parties are extremely rarely given a platform.

Toroczkai has also attracted attention internationally, including a meeting with Dmitry Medvedev last November, seen by critics as aligning with the pro-Russian narrative often attributed to both parties. Shared scepticism towards the European Union further reinforces perceptions of ideological overlap.

High political stakes: strategy or “self-destruction”?

Magyar has gone further, arguing that any form of electoral cooperation could have far-reaching consequences: not only for the election outcome but for Hungary’s geopolitical direction. He warned that a Fidesz–Mi Hazánk alliance could ultimately push the country towards exiting the European Union, either formally or through deepening political isolation:

• Orbán outlines why Hungary may need to quit the EU: Huxit possible if he wins again?

At the same time, the potential withdrawal of candidates is a serious dilemma for Mi Hazánk. While the party continues to position itself as part of the opposition, stepping aside in favour of the ruling party would likely reinforce long-standing accusations that it has functioned as a “constructed opposition” aligned with Fidesz interests.

For critics, such a move would amount to political self-sabotage: an opposition party effectively boosting the governing party’s chances at the ballot box.

Election campaign enters critical phase

With just 16 days to go until the vote, the Hungarian campaign is entering an increasingly tense and unpredictable phase. While no formal agreement has been confirmed, the combination of political signals, past cooperation, and ongoing speculation ensures that the relationship between Fidesz and Mi Hazánk will be further watched closely.

Read our articles about Hungary’s upcoming elections.

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