Budapest Protesters Call for Repeal of Assembly Law Amendment
Protests Erupt in Budapest Against Assembly Law Amendment
Independent lawmaker Ákos Hadházy spearheaded a demonstration in Budapest on Tuesday, calling for the withdrawal of a controversial amendment to the assembly law. The event took place at Ferenciek Square, where Hadházy gathered supporters eager to voice their desire for a free and open society.
Speaking to the crowd, Hadházy emphasized that “no government is immune to pressure” and that meaningful change can be achieved “against any government.” He argued that the amendment was not merely aimed at banning the Pride march but was a preemptive strike against protests that might arise from alleged election fraud and the suppression of opposition politicians.
Reflecting on the ongoing protests, Hadházy stated that their success would be measured by the law’s withdrawal. He expressed a hope for larger crowds in future demonstrations, announcing plans for another rally next week. Though he acknowledged the challenges ahead, he pledged to fight relentlessly for their cause.
In a show of solidarity, Hadházy urged the protesters to march towards the headquarters of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, highlighting the plight of academics allegedly being coerced by the government. He reported that the government had offered 80 billion forints (approximately EUR 198 million) for properties belonging to the Hungarian Research Network, which academics claim are worth 130 billion. The government’s threat to withhold wage increases unless these legal pursuits were dropped added another layer of pressure to the situation.
As the march progressed, demonstrators crossed the Elisabeth Bridge to the Buda side, later making their way back to the academy on the Pest side via Chain Bridge. However, chaos ensued when a group of protesters unlawfully occupied Elisabeth Bridge, blocking traffic for 20 minutes before police intervened.
Recent days have seen a surge in protests in Budapest, including efforts to block Chain Bridge, with police stepping in to maintain order.
For those interested in the evolving landscape of freedom of assembly in Hungary, further updates can be found on local news outlets.
It’s an ongoing struggle as opposition MPs face unprecedented bans within the Hungarian Parliament, signaling a critical moment for democracy in the nation.
