Protesters Clash with Police in Budapest, Attempt to Block Chain Bridge
Growing Protest Movement in Budapest Against Legislative Changes
On Thursday afternoon, a rally led by opposition supporters began as a legally sanctioned demonstration outside the Parliament in Budapest. However, tensions escalated when protesters deviated from their planned route to march towards the Prime Minister’s office located in the Castle District. As they crossed Chain Bridge, police intervened and shut it down, citing traffic obstruction and a lack of permission for the extended march.
Independent MP Ákos Hadházy, who called the protest to oppose amendments to the assembly law, urged demonstrators to redirect their march to Margaret Island. Nonetheless, many supporters of the Momentum Movement chose to proceed to Chain Bridge instead. The Budapest Police subsequently labeled the gathering on the bridge as an "illegal assembly."
Momentum wanted to go to Buda Castle after the demonstration ended. Photo: MTI
A Call for Democratic Values
Earlier in the day at Kossuth Square, Hadházy addressed the crowd, emphasizing that this protest was not solely about the assembly law but also a broader crusade for freedom and democratic values. He quoted Hungarian statesman Ferenc Deák, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in preserving freedom. "We’re here to demonstrate that we’re not abandoning our freedom and that we intend to regain it," Hadházy declared.
Ákos Hadházy Speaking in front of the Hungarian Parliament. Photo: MTI
Critique of Government Policies
Hadházy criticized the amendment to the assembly law as one of many lines crossed by those in power. He raised concerns about a potential “Chinese-type surveillance system” targeting opposition figures, expressing his dread about the implications for future generations. He pledged to organize another police-approved protest at Ferenciek Square, committing to hold similar demonstrations every Tuesday thereafter.
Lawyer László Majtényi condemned the recently proposed amendments to the Constitution, labeling the 15th amendment as “the most shameful” change made to further the political agenda of the ruling Fidesz party. Majtényi asserted that such changes undermine both constitutional integrity and the entire Hungarian legal system, particularly pointing out the implications for human dignity in banning Pride events.
There were many demonstrators on Kossuth Square. Photo: MTI
Conclusion
The recent protests in Budapest signal a growing discontent with governmental policies and an increasing mobilization of citizens advocating for democratic principles and freedoms. As tensions rise and future demonstrations are planned, the opposition remains determined to reclaim what they perceive as dwindling civil liberties in Hungary.
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