Speakers at the demonstration demanded that a “corrupt regime” should be removed and called for cooperation within the opposition.

They also protested for a free press and better education.

In his address to participants, organiser Balázs Gulyás rejected ruling Fidesz’s “system based on inciting hatred” and urged that before the next municipal election the opposition should field joint candidates against nominees of the ruling parties.

Attila B. Hidvéghi, editor-in-chief of portal Romnet, said that the “indifference and apathy of people” should be removed and called for a joint effort by Roma and non-Roma to build a “predictable future and justice, without segregation or stigmatisation”.

According to estimates by the organisers, the event was attended by 10,000 people.

Some participants were carrying signs of the Democratic Coalition, Momentum, and the European Left, as well as the national colours and flags of the European Union.

The protest was disrupted by a hailstorm, and many people sought refuge under the arcades of a nearby building.

MTI photo