Hungarian President Tamás Sulyok has voiced strong opposition to the proposed 17th Amendment to the nation’s Fundamental Law, cautioning that it could significantly weaken the separation of powers and compromise the rule of law. He argues that this amendment would grant the governing majority greater ease in removing the head of state and leaders of independent institutions, thereby enhancing political influence over constitutional bodies.
President Sulyok highlighted that if the amendment is passed, it would result in the immediate termination of the current president’s term. Additionally, he noted that the Constitutional Court would be impacted by the reintroduction of a 70-year age limit for its members. The proposal also includes a 12-year term limit for members of parliament, which could hinder some lawmakers from pursuing re-election.
The president expressed concerns that these proposed changes pose a threat to Hungary’s constitutional democracy, infringing upon essential democratic principles such as judicial independence and the separation of powers. He urged lawmakers to take into account the Venice Commission’s perspective to ensure the constitutional dispute is resolved in a manner that aligns with democratic and legal norms.
Furthermore, Sulyok called upon political leaders and public figures to uphold the values of democracy, rule of law, and human rights. He described the current situation as a pivotal moment for Hungary’s constitutional future, emphasizing the need for concerted efforts to protect democratic values in this critical period.