Thousands protest Hungarian PM Orban in downtown Budapest

Lawyer Peter Magyar organizes a massive rally in Budapest against Viktor Orban’s government, as he launches a new political movement challenging the prime minister

Thousands gathered in downtown Budapest on Saturday to protest against the government of Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

Led by Peter Magyar, a lawyer with ties to the administration, the protest marked the launch of a new political movement aimed at challenging Orban’s rule.

Marching towards parliament in warm spring weather, demonstrators chanted slogans like “we are not scared” and “Orban resign!” Many donned the red-white-green national colors and carried the Hungarian flag, symbols long associated with Orban’s party.

Magyar, 43, who was previously married to Orban’s ex-justice minister Judit Varga, plans to establish his own political party. Protesters expressed support for Magyar, citing his insider knowledge of the government’s workings.

In February, Magyar gained attention for his outspoken remarks about the government. He accused Antal Rogan, Orban’s office minister, of overseeing a centralized propaganda machine and released a recording of Varga discussing interference in a corruption case.

The statements have led to a probe by prosecutors, adding to Orban’s challenges ahead of the European parliamentary elections in June.

The political climate has been further strained by a sex abuse scandal that led to the downfall of two of Orban’s key allies in February – the former president and Varga.

Source: Newsroom