Hungarian Parliament Passes Constitutional Amendments Amid Presidential Removal Bid

On July 13, the Hungarian parliament approved a constitutional amendment with 139 votes in favor and six against, paving the way for the potential removal of President Tamás Sulyok.

Constitutional Shift and Presidential Removal

The Hungarian parliament passed a package of constitutional amendments on Monday, July 13, with 139 deputies voting in favor. The session saw a boycott by Fidesz party members, who opposed the legislative push.

Prime Minister Péter Magyar, who has labeled President Sulyok a “puppet” of former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, had previously threatened to initiate removal proceedings if the president refused to sign the amendments. Magyar expects a new president to be in office by August 20, despite Sulyok’s current term being scheduled to end in 2029.

Magyar Claims Mandate to Dismantle System

Prior to the vote, Prime Minister Magyar addressed the parliament, characterizing the effort as essential for the nation. He argued that the current constitutional order was designed to prioritize the will of one individual over legislative integrity.

Magyar emphasized that his party, TISZA, secured a two-thirds majority, providing a clear mandate to dismantle the existing political system. The party currently holds 141 seats in the Hungarian parliament.

Opposition and Reform Provisions

Fidesz and opposition figures have contested the legality of these actions, claiming the removal process violates the constitution. A protest against the president’s potential removal was held by Fidesz in Budapest on July 9, though former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán was notably absent.

The approved 12-point constitutional package includes the implementation of three-term limits for members of parliament. Additionally, it establishes a specialized office dedicated to the recovery and protection of assets, intended to reclaim funds allegedly misappropriated during the Orbán administration.