Hungarian President Tamás Sulyok has officially rejected calls for his resignation, stating that the dignity of his office and his constitutional oath demand he remain in his post despite political pressure.
Sulyok Defends His Mandate
In a video message posted on Facebook, President Sulyok declared that the dignity of the head of state requires steadfastness. He emphasized that his oath binds him to the entire Hungarian political nation, including both the majority and the minority, noting that respect for the law requires loyalty to the homeland.
In an interview with the portal Inditex, Sulyok reiterated that there is no legal or constitutional reason to justify his resignation. He affirmed his intention to fulfill his commitment unless performing his duties becomes impossible.
Magyar’s Ultimatum and Political Standoff
Péter Magyar, who has labeled Sulyok a puppet of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, first called for the president’s resignation on the night of the April 12 elections. Magyar had set a deadline of May 31 for the president and other officials appointed by the previous government to step down, threatening removal if they failed to comply.
While the Hungarian Prime Minister announced a meeting with the president and the Minister of Justice, Sulyok continues to lean on constitutional arguments. Magyar previously claimed that during their first meeting, the president did not reject the resignation request, but the president has since taken a firm stance against stepping down.
Constitutional Hurdles for Removal
Sulyok, elected by the votes of Fidesz deputies, holds a term lasting until March 2029. Under the Hungarian constitution, a president can only be removed for failing to uphold the fundamental law, intentionally violating duties, or committing a common crime.
The removal process requires a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly. While Péter Magyar’s Tisza party is currently active in the political landscape, any final decision regarding the president’s status rests with the 15-member Constitutional Court, which remains composed of judges appointed by the previous parliamentary majority led by Orbán.