Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar has unveiled a plan for an extensive constitutional reform aimed at transforming the country’s political and judicial systems. In a recent parliamentary session, Magyar outlined the government’s intention to draft a new constitution that would introduce a 12-year term limit for parliamentary members, reform the judiciary, and modify the appointment process for senior state officials. Among the proposals is a contentious amendment that would prematurely end President Tamás Sulyok’s term, allowing the parliament to elect a new president ahead of schedule. The reforms also include significant changes to the leadership structure of Hungary’s Constitutional Court, such as reinstating the judges’ right to elect their president and imposing a retirement age cap of 70.
The proposed constitutional changes are expected to significantly impact several senior members of the opposition Fidesz party, which was in power for years under Viktor Orbán. Critics of the reforms argue that these measures could potentially remove seasoned opposition legislators from parliament and weaken the checks and balances of the country’s institutions. In response, Magyar’s government claims the reforms are designed to enhance accountability, reduce corruption, and modernize Hungary’s political framework. Additionally, the administration plans to establish a National Asset Recovery Office to investigate and recoup public assets that were allegedly misappropriated by prior governments.
As part of the reform initiative, the government is also contemplating holding a referendum to seek public endorsement. However, Hungarian law stipulates that for a referendum to be valid, at least 50% of eligible voters must participate. Opponents have accused the government of using these constitutional changes to consolidate its power and target political adversaries, raising concerns over the potential erosion of democratic principles.
Some conservative constitutional experts have cautioned that any efforts to recover state assets must strictly adhere to due process, protect property rights, and ensure judicial oversight to prevent violations of constitutional safeguards. Meanwhile, proponents of the reforms assert that implementing robust anti-corruption measures and establishing term limits are crucial steps toward boosting political accountability and restoring public confidence in governmental institutions.
The proposed reforms are anticipated to spark vigorous debate within the Hungarian parliament and among legal professionals, as the nation considers one of the most substantial constitutional overhauls in recent history.