In a strong rebuke of a proposed constitutional change, Hungarian President Tamás Sulyok has voiced serious concerns over the potential impact of the 17th Amendment to the country’s Fundamental Law. The president has warned that the amendment could significantly erode the separation of powers and compromise the rule of law in Hungary. His critique centers on how the amendment would make it easier for the ruling majority to dismiss the head of state and other leaders of independent institutions, thereby increasing political influence over these constitutional bodies.
Sulyok highlighted that if the proposal passes, it would immediately terminate his own presidency. Moreover, the amendment could have lasting effects on the Constitutional Court by reintroducing a mandatory retirement age of 70 for its justices. Additionally, the amendment proposes to impose a 12-year cap on parliamentary terms, potentially barring several current lawmakers from future re-election bids.
The president emphasized that these proposed alterations pose a threat to Hungary’s constitutional democracy, undermining fundamental democratic tenets such as judicial independence and the balance of powers. He urged legislators to heed the recommendations of the Venice Commission, seeking a resolution to the constitutional conflict that aligns with established democratic and legal standards.
In his appeal, Sulyok called upon political leaders and public figures to uphold democratic values, the rule of law, and human rights. He described the current situation as a pivotal moment for Hungary’s constitutional trajectory, stressing the importance of defending the core principles that support the nation’s democratic framework.