In a fervent critique, former Hungarian President János Áder has denounced the proposed removal of current President Tamás Sulyok, labeling it a “constitutional coup” that threatens to disrupt Hungary’s constitutional framework. Áder made his remarks during a podcast discussion, where he emphasized that political differences should not serve as a basis for legal proceedings against the head of state. He highlighted that the constitution explicitly outlines a clear process for removing a president, which involves impeachment only if there is a two-thirds majority in parliament and evidence of constitutional or legal breaches.
The controversial 17th amendment to Hungary’s Fundamental Law is at the heart of this debate, as it seeks to mandate Sulyok’s immediate departure from office upon its enactment. Áder criticized this move, arguing that it circumvents the constitutionally mandated impeachment process, effectively enacting retroactive legislation that stands in opposition to constitutional principles. He dismissed claims that Sulyok’s response to certain political controversies was insufficient, noting that such criticisms are political in nature and do not constitute legal grounds for removal.
Áder cautioned that bypassing the established legal framework for removing a president through a constitutional amendment could weaken the institution’s legitimacy and erode the rule of law in Hungary. He argued that the presidency’s credibility hinges on adherence to constitutional processes and that any successor appointed through such an amendment would likely encounter doubts about their constitutional legitimacy and capacity to embody national unity.
According to Áder, the implications of removing President Sulyok without following the constitutionally outlined impeachment process are far-reaching. He stressed that the legitimacy of the office would be compromised, and any new appointee would face significant challenges in gaining public and institutional trust. The former president’s strong stand highlights the broader debate about maintaining constitutional integrity amid political discord in Hungary.