In a powerful display of discontent against Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, tens of thousands of supporters gathered in Budapest on Saturday to rally behind rising political challenger Peter Magyar. The demonstration, part of a series of protests against Orban's right-wing nationalist government, showcased Magyar's plan to unite Hungary and bring an end to Orban's 14-year hold on power.

Magyar, a former insider within Orban's ruling Fidesz party, has swiftly risen to prominence in recent weeks with his allegations of entrenched corruption and cronyism among Hungary's leaders. The 43-year-old intends to establish a new political party that will contest the upcoming EU and municipal elections scheduled for this summer.

Addressing the enthusiastic crowd that filled the vast square near the parliament building in Budapest, Magyar announced the creation of a new political community aimed at uniting conservative and liberal Hungarians. He expressed his vision of a sovereign, modern, and European Hungary, stating, "Step by step, brick by brick, we are taking back our homeland and building a new country."

Magyar's break from Orban's political circle in February following a scandal has garnered him a substantial following. Through frequent media appearances, he has highlighted what he perceives as a hijacking of Hungary's political life by a privileged group of oligarchs and anti-democratic elites.

During the rally, Magyar addressed the crowd, stating, "More than 20 years have passed as our elected leaders have incited the Hungarian people against each other... We will put an end to this now."

Critics of Orban accuse him of eroding democratic institutions, controlling a significant portion of the media, and manipulating the election system to favor his party. The European Union (EU) has withheld billions in funding over concerns of democratic regression, allegations of misusing EU funds, and failure to safeguard minority rights.

Amidst the demonstration, one participant, Zoltan Koszler, expressed his desire for a "normal rule-of-law state," where the principles of the rule of law are genuinely upheld, both on paper and in reality.

Magyar's rise as a formidable challenger to Orban's rule signals a potential shift in Hungary's political landscape. As the country prepares for crucial elections, all eyes will be on Magyar's newly formed party to see if it can galvanize enough support to challenge the long-standing power of the incumbent leader.