Hungary's opposition mobilizes in response to Orban's commitment to intensify restrictions on media and non-governmental organizations.
Hungary's opposition mobilizes in response to Orban's commitment to intensify restrictions on media and non-governmental organizations.
Tens of Thousands Rally in Budapest Against Orban, Back Opposition Leader Magyar
Tens of thousands of Hungarians took to the streets of Budapest on Saturday, waving national flags in protest against Prime Minister Viktor Orban. The massive demonstration was led by Peter Magyar, the rising opposition leader of the Tisza party, who vowed to integrate Hungary into a stronger Europe and bring an end to Orban’s 15-year rule.
Magyar’s Growing Momentum
Peter Magyar, a former government insider, launched his movement just a year ago, and his Tisza party—named after Hungary's second-largest river—now leads Orban’s Fidesz in most polls ahead of the 2026 elections. His rise comes as Hungary grapples with economic struggles and growing discontent with Orban’s policies.
Addressing the crowd, Magyar declared, “Those who betray their own nation belong in the dustbin of history. Our time has come.” He also announced a nationwide public survey on 12 key economic and political issues, promising to amplify the “voice of the nation.”
Orban’s Pushback & Anti-Western Rhetoric
Earlier on Saturday, Orban doubled down on his nationalist agenda, vowing to crack down on foreign-funded politicians and journalists while once again rejecting Ukraine’s EU membership bid. His speech, delivered on Hungary’s National Day, was a stark warning to his critics.
“After today’s celebrations, we begin the great Easter cleaning. The bugs survived the winter, but we will wipe out this shadow army,” Orban said, referring to NGOs, judges, and media organizations that receive funding from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and billionaire George Soros.
Emboldened by U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to dismantle USAID, Orban has been pushing legislation to tighten control over foreign influence in Hungary. His ruling Fidesz party recently proposed constitutional amendments that would allow the expulsion of dual citizens deemed a threat to national sovereignty.
Massive Turnout Signals Growing Opposition
Braving cold, drizzly weather, more than 50,000 protesters filled the streets, chanting “Filthy Fidesz” and “The Tisza is flooding.” Their numbers and energy signaled a growing challenge to Orban’s dominance as Hungary moves closer to a high-stakes election in 2026.
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