Political rivals Viktor Orban and Peter Magyar march in Budapest

Politcal parties Fidesz and Tisza were due to stage large-scale marches in Budapest to mark Hungary’s March 15 national day

In power since 2010, Viktor Orban faces what could be his toughest bid for re-election after three years of stagnation, a surge in the cost of living and the rise of a pro-European Union rival seen by many as a viable alternative.

Hungary’s feuding political parties gathered for a show of force On Sunday as an acrimonious campaign between right-wing prime minister Viktor Orban and centre-right challenger Peter Magyar entered a pivotal stage, ahead of an April 12 election.

In power since 2010, Orban faces what could be his toughest bid for re-election after three years of stagnation, a surge in the cost of living and the rise of a pro-European Union rival seen by many as a viable alternative.