“The sixtieth anniversary of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution and War of Independence sends the message that the Hungarians are a people of freedom, who stand up for justice even against the tide” Parliamentary State Secretary Csaba Dömötör from the Cabinet Office of the Prime Minister said.

Recalling the events of ten years ago, Mr. Dömötör asked all public figures to celebrate the anniversary of the revolution with dignity on Sunday and to put aside their political agendas for at least this one day.

“1956 isn’t a party political issue but a national issue, and we owe the heroes of the Revolution enough ‘to prove on this day’: Hungary is unified when it comes to our most important values”, he stressed.

“The steadfastness of the heroes of 1956 ‘also represents an obligation for us’ and reminds us that every generation must fight for its freedom; this was the case sixty years ago and this is also true now”, he explained. We would like to celebrate in a way that is “worthy of the memory of the victims: with respect, pride and affection”, he said.

“Ten years ago we did not succeed in celebrating in a worthy manner, ‘the left-wing government of the time ruined the peaceful commemoration’, and the violence seriously abused not only those who injured then, but also the memory of 1956”, the Parliamentary State Secretary said. “We ask that all responsible public figures, including the left-wing parties, celebrate the anniversary peacefully and with dignity, and allow others to also do so. Do not ruin the peaceful holiday once again. Put aside your political interests for at least this one day”, he added.

According to Mr. Dömötör, this is an opportunity to put right what happened in 2006 and to express our gratitude to those who gave their lives for our freedom in a worthy manner. “It is to this end that the Government would like everyone to attend the official commemoration on Kossuth Square on Sunday afternoon”, he added.

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Polish head of state Andrzej Duda will both give speeches at the event.

(MTI)