Hungary’s parliament votes to oust president Sulyok
The Hungarian Parliament voted on July 13th to remove President Tamás Sulyok through a constitutional amendment. Prime Minister Péter Magyar initiated the move, viewing Sulyok as a ‘puppet’ of Viktor Orbán. This action reflects efforts to dismantle Orbán’s power and shift the country’s political direction.
The constitutional amendment, passed with 139 to 6 votes, allows the government to remove the president. This followed accusations that President Sulyok was controlled by Viktor Orbán, the former prime minister. Prime Minister Péter Magyar’s Tisza party led the effort to change the system. The amendment also includes changes to the justice system and limits on parliamentary terms. Concerns have been raised about the impact on Hungary’s democratic processes and the independence of the government. The move follows the Fidesz party’s defeat in April’s elections.
Summarized from the sources above. Read the originals for the full story.
Highlights
Parliament voted to remove Sulyok
The Hungarian Parliament approved a constitutional amendment to remove President Tamás Sulyok.
Sulyok seen as an Orbán 'puppet'
Prime Minister Peter Magyar views President Tamás Sulyok as a ‘puppet’ of Viktor Orban.
Constitutional amendment allows removal
A constitutional amendment allows the government to remove the president.
Changes to justice system approved
The amendment includes changes to the justice system and limits on parliamentary terms.
Efforts to diminish Orbán's influence
Prime Minister Magyar’s efforts reflect a strategy to diminish the influence of Viktor Orban.
Perspectives
- The Hungarian parliament passed a constitutional amendment.
- The amendment aims to remove President Tamás Sulyok from office.
- Prime Minister Péter Magyar is driving the effort to remove Sulyok.
- The move reflects a shift in power within Hungary.
Prime Minister Magyar views Sulyok as a ‘puppet’ of Viktor Orbán.
RFI, FAZ, ZEIT Online, NU.nl, NOS Nieuws, Público
President Sulyok is resisting the move and views it as illegitimate.
RFI, El País, tagesschau, DW English, BBC Europe
Several sources express concerns about the impact on democratic processes and the role of the head of state.
VRT NWS, El País, ZEIT Online, NU.nl, EurActiv
The government argues the changes are necessary to dismantle Orbán’s policies and strengthen the state.
El País, Público, Politico EU
The constitutional amendment limits the terms of judges and parliamentarians.
Der Spiegel, DW English
This raises concerns about the independence of the Hungarian government.
VRT NWS, NU.nl, BBC Europe