Thousands of Hungarians express dissatisfaction with Viktor Orbán's policies

(Patria) - Thousands of Hungarians protested yesterday against Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, one month before the start of the European Parliament elections and local elections.

Peter Magyar, a former government insider who some observers consider the first serious threat to Orbán in several years, organized a rally attended by about 10,000 people in the eastern city of Debrecen, a stronghold of the ruling Fidesz party.

Fidesz candidates have led the city since the late 1990s, and the ruling party won about 60 percent of the votes in the last elections, compared to about a third won by opposition parties.

Addressing supporters, Magyar targeted one of Orbán's core policies, criticizing the "extremely low" level of child benefits in Hungary.


Peter Magyar

Orbán says that among EU countries, Hungary spends the largest portion of its economy on family support.

"We need a completely new system where social support is truly adapted to social needs," said Magyar, stating that Hungary is governed by a "well-connected elite," which he will seek to end if elected.

International observers say Orbán has directed EU funds to businessmen close to Fidesz to consolidate his power. Orbán says Hungary is no more corrupt than other countries.

The body responsible for overseeing EU funds says it does not have adequate powers to uncover possible irregularities and has requested additional powers.