Following years of conflict, originating from debates on the European values as well as personal conflicts, Hungary’s governing party has decided to leave the European People’s Party’s (EPP) EP group. Overall, the domestic opposition’s reactions predict Fidesz will drift further away from Europe, while apparently many even within the EPP are happy about Fidesz’s departure.
Domestic reactions: Fidesz drifts further away from Europe, Orbán losing influence
Democratic Coalition (DK) leader Ferenc Gyurcsány labels the development as a clear fiasco for Orbán, no matter how he is trying to sell it. “There isn’t any strong man of Europe. Here we see a real loser. They deserve what is happening to them now (…) They will lose at home in a year’s time too.”