Hungarian President Tamás Sulyok has voiced strong opposition to the proposed 17th Amendment to Hungary’s Fundamental Law, citing potential threats to the nation’s democratic foundation. Sulyok warned that the amendment could diminish the separation of powers and undermine the rule of law by granting the ruling majority heightened ability to oust the head of state and other leaders of independent institutions, thus tightening political control over constitutional bodies.
The president highlighted that the amendment, if passed, would immediately terminate the current president’s term. It also seeks to reintroduce a 70-year age limit for members of the Constitutional Court, a move that could significantly impact its composition. Additionally, the proposal includes a 12-year term limit for members of parliament, which could disqualify several current lawmakers from running for re-election.
Sulyok expressed concerns that these proposed changes could jeopardize Hungary’s constitutional democracy by violating essential democratic principles such as judicial independence and the separation of powers. He urged lawmakers to heed the advice of the Venice Commission to ensure that any resolution to the constitutional dispute aligns with democratic and legal norms.
The president also appealed to political leaders and public figures to stand firm in defending democracy, the rule of law, and human rights. He characterized the current situation as a pivotal moment for the future of Hungary’s constitutional framework, emphasizing the need for vigilance in preserving democratic values.