Hungary is on the brink of a significant political transformation as Prime Minister Péter Magyar unveils plans for a comprehensive constitutional overhaul. The proposed changes, announced in parliament, include a 12-year term limit for members of parliament, a reformed judiciary, and a new procedure for appointing senior state officials. Among the most contentious elements is a constitutional amendment that would terminate President Tamás Sulyok’s term early, allowing parliament to appoint a new head of state ahead of schedule.
The reforms aim to reshape the leadership structure of Hungary’s Constitutional Court by reinstating the judges’ right to elect their president and reintroducing a retirement age limit of 70. These changes are poised to impact several senior figures linked to the opposition Fidesz party, which previously held power under Viktor Orbán’s leadership. Critics warn that these measures could eliminate seasoned opposition lawmakers from parliament and diminish institutional checks and balances.
Magyar’s administration argues that the reforms are crucial for enhancing accountability, combating corruption, and modernizing Hungary’s political framework. A significant initiative within the reform package is the establishment of a National Asset Recovery Office, tasked with investigating and reclaiming public assets allegedly misused by former governments. The government is also contemplating a public referendum to approve the reforms, though Hungarian law stipulates that at least half of eligible voters must participate for the vote to be binding.
Opponents of the reforms accuse the government of using constitutional changes to consolidate power and undermine political adversaries. Conservative constitutional experts have voiced concerns that asset recovery efforts must respect due process, property rights, and judicial oversight to avoid infringing on constitutional protections. However, proponents argue that implementing stronger anti-corruption measures and term limits is essential for increasing political accountability and restoring public trust in state institutions.
The proposed constitutional overhaul is expected to ignite fervent debate in parliament and among legal scholars, as Hungary considers one of its most significant constitutional reforms in recent history. The outcome of these discussions will likely shape the country’s political and judicial landscape for years to come.