Commemoration Held in Szeged for 1956 Revolution Martyr and Birth of Press Freedom

Szeged: The KDNP and the Livable Civil City Association commemorated the Szeged martyr of the 1956 revolution, Lajos Schvarcz, and the historic Széchenyi Radio over the weekend. Wreaths were laid at memorial plaques honoring Schvarcz, who died during the firefight in Szeged 68 years ago, and the radio station that symbolized the fight for press freedom.

According to KDNP, the events of October 26, 1956, remain deeply ingrained in the city’s history. On that day, a series of gunshots on Takaréktár Street, described as a “warning shot” by communist authorities, claimed the life of 17-year-old youth worker Lajos Schvarcz and left 16 others wounded. The traumatic experience had a lasting impact on those present, who were not permitted to discuss the events for decades.

Haág Zalán, president of KDNP in Szeged, reflected on the significance of the day at a commemoration ceremony, quoting a poem by former Szeged professor Sándor Sík. Zalán emphasized that had circumstances been different, Schvarcz might still be a
live today.

The commemoration also highlighted the role of Széchenyi Radio, which broadcasted as the free voice of the revolution for 10 days, ceasing operations with the Soviet military’s intervention. Péter Szilveszter from the Livable City praised the radio’s contribution to the birth of press freedom in 1956. The event served as a tribute to the courage and legacy of those involved in the revolution, with memorial candles placed by local government representatives from Fidesz, Ferenc Német, and Levente Farkas.