Press statement by Dr. Tamás Sulyok following the close of polling in the 2026 parliamentary elections

My Fellow Hungarians!
Ladies and Gentlemen!

Since the spring of 1990, when the first free elections were held following the change of regime, we have today held democratic parliamentary elections in Hungary for the tenth time. Hungarian citizens with the right to vote, both in Hungary and abroad – at polling stations in the country, at diplomatic missions, and by postal vote – were able to freely express their views on the country’s leadership. 

The election of Members of the National Assembly, as the supreme body of popular representation, constitutes a direct manifestation of Hungarian popular sovereignty. Within this framework, we, the Hungarian nation, as the source of constitutional authority, decide on our own governance and confer upon our Members of Parliament the authority to exercise public power on our behalf. That is why, for the past 36 years, Election Day has also been a celebration of independence and democracy. 
In the last few minutes, here at the National Election Office, I have been informed that the 2026 parliamentary elections have been successfully concluded. 

According to the data currently available, 77.8 per cent of eligible voters cast their ballots, and depending on data to be received later, this figure is expected to rise slightly.

This record-high turnout is undeniable evidence of the robust functioning of democracy in Hungary. 

The large number of citizens who have exercised their right to vote also demonstrates strong public confidence in the integrity and conduct of elections in our country.
Accordingly, the result of the election—whatever it may turn out to be—will constitute a legitimate mandate regarding the direction Hungary should take in the coming period.

A few minutes ago, at 7:00 p.m., the counting of votes began at polling stations across the country and at the National Election Office. We can expect the final, legally binding results only once all votes have been counted and any legal appeals have been concluded—hopefully as soon as possible. However, preliminary results are expected later this evening.

Under the Fundamental Law, the President of Hungary must convene the Inaugural Session of the National Assembly within 30 days of the election date, and must also propose a candidate for the office of Prime Minister at that time. 
In view of my obligations under the Fundamental Law, once the election results are known, I will, in due course,  initiate consultations with the leaders of all parties elected to the National Assembly regarding the date and preparations for the Inaugural Session of the new National Assembly. I will also extend the invitation to form a government in accordance with the Fundamental Law and established constitutional practice. I will keep the public informed of these developments. 

Finally, on behalf of the entire nation, I would like to express my gratitude to every Hungarian citizen who exercised their right to vote and thus contributed to our collective decision-making.

Thanks are also due to the National Election Office, the National Election Committee and all members of the electoral bodies, as well as all other bodies and individuals involved in the conduct of the elections, who, through their dedicated work, facilitated and supported the professional conduct of the 2026 parliamentary elections.

Dear Fellow Citizens!

With the conclusion of the voting, the campaign has also come to an end. I hope that the hustle and bustle of the campaign will be followed by a period of calm public dialogue!

Thank you for your kind attention!

(The Head of State’s address was delivered on Sunday 12 April 2026 at 19:05 at the National Election Office, based on turnout figures available at 18:30.)