It's a sight to behold in Hungary as tens of thousands of citizens flood the streets, their voices united in protest against a tide of corruption scandals that have recently engulfed the nation.
This surge of public dissent marks one of the most significant demonstrations Hungary has seen in years, shining a light on the growing unrest under Prime Minister Viktor Orban's administration.
The Guardian reports on this monumental gathering, capturing the essence of a nation on the brink of demanding substantial change.
"This Cannot Be Stopped"
At the forefront of these protests is Peter Magyar, a lawyer and former diplomat, who has become a beacon of hope for many Hungarians.
Magyar's bold declaration that "the change has begun, this cannot be stopped" resonates with the masses as they echo his sentiment that nothing will remain as it was.
His critical view of both the government and the opposition positions him as a centrist figure who might just be the catalyst Hungary needs.
Magyar's criticisms don't stop with the government's policies; he also highlights the lack of independence in Hungarian media and authorities.
This, he argues, is a fundamental flaw in the country's governance, contributing to the dissatisfaction among the populace.
"Anything Could Happen"
The backdrop to these protests is a series of corruption scandals that have rocked Orban's administration, prompting an unprecedented level of criticism from the public.
Andrea Varga, a protester speaking to Bloomberg, captures the mood perfectly:
"There are so many people with suppressed complaints. So many things happened so quickly in a month; anything could happen."
A Sea of Discontent
The weekend saw massive crowds gathering with a shared goal: to initiate a change in leadership that would steer Hungary in a new direction.
Protesters like Kristof Szakmary wonder aloud when was the last time such a powerful display of public sentiment was witnessed.
This collective action signals a deep-rooted desire for reform, with many looking towards Magyar as a potential leader of a new movement strong enough to challenge Orban's long-standing rule.
