Hungary’s MPs block return of Orbán, limiting rule of PM to eight years
Hungary's Constitutional Amendment Caps Prime Minister's Term at Eight Years
Hungary s MPs block return of Orbán - The Hungarian parliament has approved a constitutional reform that restricts a prime minister's tenure to a maximum of eight years, effectively ending Viktor Orbán's possibility of reclaiming power. This decision was promised by Péter Magyar, leader of the Tisza party, which secured a two-thirds majority in April's election, toppling Orbán after his 16-year rule. The amendment ensures that no leader since 1990 can serve more than two terms, regardless of the gap between them.
Orbán's Fidesz party opposed the change, with the former prime minister criticizing the move as premature. "The Orban law has just been voted through. That was the most pressing issue. If I'm needed, I'll be here," he stated on Facebook. He argued that Tisza had only been in power for a month and should not impose long-term restrictions on governance. The amendment passed with a 135-50 vote, requiring President Tamás Sulyok's signature to take effect.
Reforms Target Orbán's Legacy
The new law also eliminates the need for an independent body to safeguard Hungary's "constitutional identity," dismantling Orbán's Sovereignty Protection Office, established in 2023 to monitor foreign influence. Additionally, it undermines the Kekva public trust foundations, which were created by the previous government through the transfer of state assets like companies and educational institutions. The government aims to reclaim these assets or reduce funding for organizations such as the Mathias Corvinus Collegium (MCC), which has close ties to Orbán's political network.
Magyar, who took office last month, pledged to dismantle the controversial state structures Fidesz implemented during its 16-year dominance. His administration faces challenges, including the European Commission's €16.4bn funding freeze, which is contingent on reforms to address corruption. Last month, the EU agreed to unlock the funds, but further legal adjustments remain pending in parliament.
Historical Reflection and Political Rhetoric
On Monday, the parliament also marked the anniversary of the 1956 revolution's leaders' execution, including former Prime Minister Imre Nagy. Magyar personally named the six figures, while MPs honored their reburial in 1989. During the session, Balázs Orbán, Magyar's former political director, accused him of implementing policies that threaten Hungarian students' futures. Magyar countered by emphasizing the 70th anniversary of the 1956 revolution in October, framing the reforms as a step toward a "free world."
"The Orban law has just been voted through. That was the most pressing issue. If I'm needed, I'll be here."