Hungary vote: Czech, Slovak leaders back Orban

PRAGUE:

Czech and Slovak leaders backed Prime Minister Viktor Orban on Saturday on the eve of Hungary's parliamentary election, saying he was the best choice for the country's interests.

Opinion polls indicate Orban, a nationalist who has clashed repeatedly with Brussels and has friendly ties with Russia, could be ousted in Sunday's vote after 16 years in power.

"I have never met such a warrior for sovereignty and national interests of one's country as Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban," said Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico.

Under Fico, who is in power for a fourth time since 2023, Slovakia has been key ally for its neighbour Hungary, with both keeping warm relations with Moscow, opposing European Union sanctions and continuing to buy Russian oil and gas. Both have clashed with EU institutions over the rule of law.

Czech populist Prime Minister Andrej Babis, a billionaire businessman who has turned from a liberal pro-EU politician into a close Orban ally in their Patriots for Europe faction in the European Parliament, also voiced his support.