Hungary’s political landscape is set for a dramatic showdown as the nation’s two leading parties prepare to hold competing demonstrations on Thursday, coinciding with a national holiday. The events, expected to draw hundreds of thousands, mark the unofficial launch of the campaign for the 2025 parliamentary elections. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Hungary’s long-serving leader, faces a challenging political climate as he trails in recent polls behind his primary rival, Péter Magyar, a former insider within Orbán’s Fidesz party. Orbán aims to rally his base, which has been unsettled by political scandals, economic stagnation, and rising living costs. Meanwhile, Magyar seeks to capitalize on widespread dissatisfaction, transforming his rally into both a political event and an anti-government protest. Observers will closely monitor the turnout and fervor of the crowds, which could signal shifting dynamics in Hungary’s deeply polarized political environment. The demonstrations also coincide with the 69th anniversary of Hungary’s 1956 anti-Soviet uprising, a date laden with historical significance. Orbán’s recent alignment with Russia, including his warm relations with the Kremlin and combative stance toward Ukraine, has drawn criticism and sparked protests. His supporters, however, remain steadfast, organizing a “peace march” where Orbán is expected to emphasize the perceived threats posed by Ukraine and the necessity of dialogue with Moscow. Magyar, on the other hand, has focused his campaign on addressing pressing domestic issues such as inflation, healthcare, and economic stagnation, particularly in rural areas that have traditionally supported Fidesz. The political rivalry has intensified, with Orbán’s government leveraging its media apparatus to discredit Magyar, accusing him of collusion with Ukrainian secret services and spreading AI-generated misinformation. Magyar has dismissed these allegations, maintaining his focus on improving Hungary’s standard of living and restoring its standing within the European Union. As the campaign heats up, Orbán’s declining popularity, coupled with corruption allegations and EU scrutiny, adds further complexity to Hungary’s political future.
Orbán and his main rival plan dueling demonstrations as Hungary’s elections near
