The news in Hungarian

Ebben az évben Magyarországon a szokásos újévi beszédet a közösségi médiában tartották. Magyar Péter felszólított a politikai változásra és korai választásra. A kormányt bírálta , Orbán Viktort korábbi tetteire emlékeztette . Az állami tévé könnyed műsort sugárzott híres emberekkel, akik szeretetről és reményről beszéltek.

Translation

This year, in Hungary, the customary New Year speech was delivered on social media. Peter Magyar called for political change and early elections. He criticised the government and reminded Viktor Orbán of his past actions. The state television broadcast a light-hearted programme featuring famous individuals who spoke about love and hope.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who called for political change and early elections in Hungary?

Magyar Péter called for political change and early elections.

Question 2: What was broadcasted on state TV in Hungary during the New Year?

State TV broadcasted a light-hearted show with famous people talking about love and hope.

Exercise: Vocabulary

- usual

- urge

(n.) - change

- criticise

- remind

- broadcast

Read the full story

▌02/01/2025

This year, the traditional New Year's speech in Hungary took an unexpected turn. With the country's president, Sulyok Tamás, opting to deliver his address on December 26 instead of at the year's end, the opportunity arose for other voices to fill the television airwaves. However, Magyar Péter, leader of the Tisza Party, had his offer to step in declined by state television.

Intent on voicing his message, Magyar turned to social media, broadcasting live on Facebook as the New Year dawned. His speech addressed Hungary's ongoing economic, constitutional, and moral crises, urging an immediate political change. He called for an early parliamentary election, challenging Prime Minister Orbán Viktor to face the electorate earlier than planned.

Controversy Over New Year Speeches in Hungary Controversy Over New Year Speeches in Hungary (Illustration)

Magyar's assertive address was filled with critiques of the current government, accusing it of mismanaging the country and fostering division among its citizens. His remarks reflected a significant portion of public sentiment, especially against the backdrop of recent political scandals. He drew historical parallels, reminding viewers of Orbán's own calls for early elections during times of crisis over a decade ago.

Amidst the political tensions, Hungarian television featured a significantly lighter program on New Year's Eve. Six prominent figures shared their reflections and messages of hope for the coming year. These included messages from opera singer Miklósa Erika, who emphasized love and unity, and athlete Ekler Luca, who highlighted her sporting achievements and looked forward to future successes.

While Magyar Péter continues to rally support via digital platforms, his exclusion from the national broadcast indicates tensions between emerging political movements and established media outlets. As Hungary moves forward into 2025, the call for political transformation remains a pressing topic for many citizens.

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