In a move that emphasizes unity over division, the Hungarian Socialist Party (MSZP), Dialogue for Hungary (Párbeszéd), and the Democratic Coalition (DK) have announced their plans to form joint lists for the European Parliament and Budapest elections, with a longer-term strategy to nominate a joint candidate for Prime Minister in the upcoming elections two years from now.
This decision was not influenced by the emergence of Peter Magyar, as Agnes Kunhalmi highlights.
Klara Dobrev, a European Parliament representative for the Democratic Coalition, announced at a press conference on Thursday that the three parties have reached a strategic cooperation agreement aimed at dismantling the Orban regime and establishing a new governance based on social democracy and green principles. This coalition aims to guide Hungary out of its current crisis. Dobrev criticizes the Orban government for its loss of control over key economic and social processes and accuses it of moral crisis, notably alleging the protection of criminals by the police force under Orban's rule.
Dobrev sees the solution in a strong leftist, social democratic, and green political alliance. She argues that disunity among the opposition has hindered the transformation of widespread dissatisfaction into a political force. The coalition, therefore, seeks to present a united front to address the crisis, with plans extending beyond the immediate future, including joint candidates, a shared program, and a joint prime ministerial candidate for the next parliamentary elections.
This alliance, according to Dobrev, is focused on reshaping politics from ruling to serving, both in local governance and across the nation. Gergely Karácsony, representing Dialogue, emphasized unity and clear alternatives to the current regime as essential for national success.
Agnes Kunhalmi, co-president of the MSZP, sees this coalition as embodying the voters' will and opening the door for a 2026 victory against
Viktor Orban's Fidesz. She urges voters to support this united front against false promises. Responding to concerns, Kunhalmi asserts that this partnership is not about one party absorbing others but about securing more seats collectively. She downplays the speculation around Peter Magyar's new, yet-to-launch party influencing their coalition, explaining that the agreement follows an extended process of deliberation.
Gergely Karácsony addresses skepticism about the influence of Peter Magyar's support, suggesting that the forthcoming elections on June 9 will be telling. This collaborative effort marks a significant step toward a hopeful future for Hungary, as envisioned by the three parties committed to social democracy and green governance.