Gyurcsány called it “crucial” that opposition parties should come to an agreement and that a “democratic” candidate should run against ruling Fidesz’s candidate in each electoral district. He said that his party was ready to sign such agreements, but added that before those deals are made DK would continue preparations on its own, as an independent party.

Gyurcsány also suggested that agreements concerning joint candidates should be reached by January the latest. DK will not have a joint list with the opposition Socialists, Gyurcsány said and blamed the Socialists’ “demands” for a lack of agreement.

He suggested, however, that a joint list of two parties may not be better than both parties garnering at least 5 percent of the votes and winning seats in parliament. He also voiced optimism that his party could multiply the number of its deputies in the next vote.

Republished with permission of Hungary Matters, MTI’s daily newsletter.

MTI photo: Soós Lajos