Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar has unveiled a sweeping plan for constitutional reform that could significantly alter the nation’s political and judicial framework. In a recent parliamentary address, Magyar outlined the government’s intention to draft a new constitution introducing a 12-year term limit for parliamentarians, overhauling the judiciary, and modifying the appointment procedures for senior state officials. Among the more contentious proposals is a constitutional amendment designed to terminate President Tamás Sulyok’s term early, thereby enabling parliament to appoint a new head of state before his current mandate concludes.
The proposed changes also target Hungary’s Constitutional Court leadership by restoring the judges’ right to elect their president and reinstating a retirement age of 70. These reforms are poised to affect several prominent figures linked to the opposition Fidesz party, the long-time ruling party under Viktor Orbán. Critics argue that these measures may result in the expulsion of seasoned opposition lawmakers from parliament and could undermine the existing checks and balances within Hungary’s political system.
Magyar’s administration insists that the reforms aim to enhance accountability, curb corruption, and update the political system. As part of this initiative, the government plans to create a National Asset Recovery Office to investigate and reclaim public assets allegedly misused by previous governments. The administration is also considering holding a public referendum on the reforms, although it would require participation from at least half of eligible voters to be legally binding.
The proposed constitutional changes have stirred concern among opponents, who accuse the government of attempting to consolidate power and marginalize political adversaries. Conservative constitutional scholars caution that any efforts to recover assets must uphold due process, respect property rights, and include judicial oversight to prevent breaching constitutional protections. Meanwhile, supporters of the reforms contend that implementing stricter anti-corruption measures and enforcing term limits are crucial steps toward increasing political accountability and restoring public confidence in state institutions.
As Hungary contemplates one of its most significant constitutional revisions in recent years, the proposals are expected to ignite vigorous debates both within parliament and among legal experts. The discourse will likely focus on the balance between reforming governance structures and maintaining the integrity of democratic institutions.