The Orbán government has reached the middle of its term and it marked the occasion with the first significant cabinet reshuffle since it entered office. There is not much of a transformation going on, however. Mostly, the cabinet overhaul has reinforced the relative influence of Fidesz’ inner circle, i.e. of people close to Orbán. Especially crucial may be János Lázár’s shift from the leadership of the parliamentary faction to the PM’s office, and the nomination of Antal Rogán as Lázár’s successor at the helm of Fidesz’ group in Parliament. Overall, Lázár did a fine job as a faction leader, but arguably his new office will make use of his better qualities while giving him less room to publicly display his weaknesses. Rogán’s elevation marks the completion of a long process of rehabilitation for one of Fidesz’ most talented young politicians.

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