PM Orbán dissatisfied with pro-government media: Here’s how he plans to win in 2026

Pro-government media is undeniably one of the most potent tools for Prime Minister Orbán’s administration. For instance, the government controls all regional newspapers, providing a significant advantage over opposition parties. However, PM Orbán remains dissatisfied with current government messaging and intends to make substantial changes.

Orbán’s discontent and planned overhaul

As we detailed in THIS article, based on Szabad Európa’s information, PM Orbán has voiced dissatisfaction with the performance of his candidates, pro-government media outlets, and overall strategy following the 9 June European Parliamentary elections. Sources informed Szabad Európa, an independent Hungarian media outlet, that Orbán plans to replace underperforming MPs and candidates, potentially including Fidesz deputy head Szilárd Németh. The prime minister appears dissatisfied with the newer generation of Fidesz leaders, who, he feels, have not worked hard enough for their successes. Additionally, Orbán is encouraging more public endorsements to deflect future criticisms.

Who will be in target during Orbán’s purge? Photo: MTI

Despite these measures, the prime minister faces a strong challenger for the first time in over 15 years. Recent polls show Péter Magyar’s Tisza Party leading Fidesz by 1-2%—a situation Hungary has not witnessed since 2006. Magyar’s success has multiple roots, from Hungary’s economic crisis and stagnant GDP and wage growth to recent Fidesz scandals, such as the resignation of President Katalin Novák, alongside Magyar’s exceptional communication skills.

Orbán’s critique of pro-government media

Unwilling to risk a potential defeat in the 2026 elections, Orbán has begun sharpening his focus. In his 23 October speech, he labelled Péter Magyar a “Brussels puppet” who would uncritically implement EU policies. However, he recognises that only a stronger, more dynamic pro-government media network can effectively convey this message to the public.

23 October commemoration of the Tisza Party in Budapest. Photo: MTI/Balogh Zoltán

According to Forbes, Orbán intends to diversify the pro-government media network. This restructuring aims to create a broader, more intellectual communication spectrum, with a wider range of content and outlets, as an insider revealed to the Hungarian press.

In a recent speech at Kötcse, a private gathering for his supporters, PM Orbán was critical of government-aligned influencers and the homogeneous nature of current messaging. He emphasised that they must not only hold but win the debate on various key policies, from healthcare and education to transport infrastructure.

Read also:

• Péter Magyar rallies opposition at Budapest demonstration, calling for change in 2026 – read more HERE
• PM Orbán: Hungary must remain neutral, 2025 will bring “fantastic results”!