Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar is taking decisive steps to amend the constitution to remove President Tamas Sulyok, whom he has labelled a “puppet” of former Prime Minister Viktor Orban. This move follows Magyar’s election victory in April, where his party secured a two-thirds majority in parliament, enabling significant changes to the political landscape established by Orban over 16 years.
Sulyok’s position, while largely ceremonial, includes critical powers such as signing legislation into law and the ability to challenge bills in the Constitutional Court. Magyar’s concerns centre on Sulyok’s potential to obstruct the new government’s agenda, particularly in light of past inaction on controversial legislation, including anti-LGBTQ measures.
The Prime Minister has set a deadline for Sulyok to resign, warning that failure to do so will lead to legislative action to remove him. This constitutional amendment process is expected to unfold over the next month, highlighting a significant shift in Hungary’s governance and the potential for a more assertive presidential role in the future.
As the situation develops, the implications for Hungary’s political stability and the broader European context are noteworthy, especially regarding the balance of power and the rule of law, which have been contentious issues under Orban’s administration.
Source: Al Jazeera
