Tisza Party's National March: A Call for Change in Hungary

On October 23, 2025, Hungary witnessed a significant political moment as two contrasting marches commemorated the 1956 revolution against Soviet rule. The ruling Fidesz party, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, held its traditional Peace March in Budapest, while the opposition Tisza Party organized its National March, emphasizing a message of regime change. The Tisza Party's march, led by its president Péter Magyar, attracted thousands of participants who marched from central Budapest to Heroes' Square, where Magyar delivered a speech advocating for national reconciliation and change.

Massive crowds and an unprecedented election atmosphere: How Fidesz and the Tisza Party commemorated 23 October in BudapestThe GuardianRussia Numerous participants at opposition demonstration in BudapestTelex.hu

In his address, Péter Magyar criticized Orbán, likening him to János Kádár, the communist leader who ruled Hungary for 32 years. Magyar asserted that leaders who oppose their own people ultimately face consequences, stating, "every leader who fights against his own people will eventually have their 'Kádár-like' moment." He called for unity among Hungarians, regardless of political affiliation, emphasizing that the nation must reclaim its identity and values. Magyar's speech included a symbolic moment of silence for the heroes of 1956, which he framed as the beginning of a new national reconciliation.

Telex.huRussia Numerous participants at opposition demonstration in BudapestMassive crowds and an unprecedented election atmosphere: How Fidesz and the Tisza Party commemorated 23 October in BudapestThe Guardian

Magyar outlined several key promises for his party's platform, including tax cuts, pension increases, the restoration of public media independence, and the establishment of a National Asset Recovery Office. He emphasized the need for a humane Hungary, free from corruption, and pledged to distance the country from Russian influence. His party's upcoming tour, titled “The Road to Victory,” aims to solidify support ahead of the April 2026 elections.

Massive crowds and an unprecedented election atmosphere: How Fidesz and the Tisza Party commemorated 23 October in Budapest

While the Tisza Party's message resonated with many, it faced criticism from Fidesz, which accused Magyar of being a puppet of the European Union and a proponent of war. Orbán dismissed the Tisza Party's claims, labeling their march a "Brussels war march." Additionally, Magyar alleged that the government had threatened bus companies to prevent them from transporting opposition supporters, a claim Fidesz's communications director described as "fake news."

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The political landscape remains polarized, with independent polls indicating that the Tisza Party is neck-and-neck with Fidesz. Balázs Böcskei, a political scientist, noted that if elections were held immediately, Tisza could lead with 37% compared to Fidesz's 27%. However, the government maintains a significant media presence, complicating the opposition's efforts to gain traction.

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• “We do not need change based on anger and revenge, but a proud, yet decisive change of regime,” — Péter Magyar, President of the Tisza Party

Telex.hu

• “The fate of the Hungarian people is not to be decided in Brussels, nor in Washington or Moscow.” — Péter Magyar

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As Hungary approaches the 2026 elections, the contrasting narratives of the Tisza Party and Fidesz will shape the political discourse, with both parties invoking the legacy of the 1956 revolution to rally support.

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