Former Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán issued a call for “resistance” against the administration of his successor, Péter Magyar, during a speech to supporters on Saturday. Speaking at an event in the Romanian spa town of Baile Tușnad, Orbán urged his Fidesz party to adapt to what he described as an era of “arbitrary rule” under the new government.

Orbán’s address marked his first significant public appearance since his unexpected defeat in the April parliamentary elections. The new government, led by Magyar and his centrist Respect and Freedom Party (TISZA), has enacted a series of constitutional amendments and legislative changes that Orbán and his allies say have effectively curtailed Fidesz’s chances of regaining power.

Key provisions introduced by Magyar’s government include limits on political tenure, stipulating that no individual may serve as prime minister more than twice and no more than three terms as a member of parliament. These reforms are seen by the ruling coalition as necessary measures to prevent the concentration of power, while Orbán criticized them as moves designed to eliminate opposition and entrench the new political order.

Despite Orbán’s warnings, the government maintains its prerogative to restructure Hungary’s political landscape following its electoral victory. The debate reflects ongoing tensions in Hungary’s political arena, with Fidesz seeking to mobilize its base in opposition to what it views as restrictions on democratic participation.

The latest developments indicate a sharply divided political environment, as Hungary navigates a post-Orbán era amid contentious reforms aimed at limiting the influence of the veteran politician and his party.