A woman holds a photograph of Hungary's prime minister, Péter Magyar, in front of Parliament on the day of his swearing-in ceremony in Budapest, Hungary, May 9. BERNADETT SZABO/REUTERS
In a festive atmosphere, Hungary's new prime minister, Péter Magyar, celebrated his inauguration by parliament on Saturday, May 9, amid scenes of public celebration. "You are showing the world there is no need to be afraid," Magyar told tens of thousands of supporters gathered outside Parliament in Budapest. The highly symbolic day formally ended nationalist Viktor Orban's 16-year rule.
"You are showing the best of Hungary, this joyful Hungary. This Hungary that is democratic once again," declared the 45-year-old pro-European conservative. After winning the April 12 elections with a commanding 53% of the vote, he was appointed on Saturday by an overwhelming majority of 140 out of 200 MPs in Parliament. Supporters celebrated by waving Hungarian and European flags, inspired by future health minister Zsolt Hegedus, who danced once more after becoming famous worldwide on April 12 for his exuberant routine.
The ceremony took place on Europe Day, and Magyar emphasized that his rise to power symbolized "Hungary's return" to the European Union. Also elected on Saturday, the new speaker of Parliament, Agnes Forsthoffer – from Tisza, Magyar's party – immediately "ordered" the return of the blue-starred EU flag to the facade of the ornate gothic parliament building. The European flag had been removed more than twelve years ago by her predecessor from Orban's Fidesz party.
