In a bold move that could transform Hungary’s political and judicial framework, Prime Minister Péter Magyar has unveiled plans for a comprehensive constitutional redesign. During his address in parliament, Magyar revealed that the government is working on drafting a new constitution which includes a 12-year term limit for members of parliament, significant judicial reforms, and changes in the appointment process for senior state officials.
Among the proposals stirring considerable debate is a constitutional amendment aimed at prematurely ending the term of President Tamás Sulyok, allowing parliament to elect a new head of state. The overhaul also targets the leadership of Hungary’s Constitutional Court, proposing to restore the judges’ power to elect the court’s president and to reinstate a retirement age cap of 70. These reforms are poised to affect several senior figures linked to the opposition Fidesz party, which was long led by Viktor Orbán. Critics fear these changes might sideline experienced opposition figures and diminish checks and balances within the government.
The Hungarian administration justifies the proposed changes as necessary steps to enhance accountability, fight corruption, and modernize the political system. A key component of the reform is the creation of a National Asset Recovery Office tasked with probing and reclaiming public assets allegedly misused in previous administrations. The government is also contemplating a public referendum to gain approval for the reforms, though Hungarian law stipulates that at least half of eligible voters must participate for the vote to be binding.
Opponents of the plan argue that these constitutional amendments are a maneuver by the government to consolidate power and target political adversaries. Conservative constitutional scholars have cautioned that any efforts to recover assets must respect due process, property rights, and judicial oversight to avoid infringing upon constitutional protections. Despite these criticisms, proponents maintain that the introduction of stronger anti-corruption measures and term limits will boost political accountability and help restore public confidence in state institutions.
The proposed constitutional changes are expected to spark vigorous debate in both parliamentary sessions and among legal experts, as Hungary considers what could be one of its most pivotal constitutional reforms in recent history.