Story perspectives

Sulyok Signs Amendment Ending Presidency, Capping MPs' Terms

7/20/2026

Summary

Sulyok Ends Term

President Tamás Sulyok signed a constitutional amendment that ends his term at midnight Monday.
The amendment limits MPs to three terms or 12 years, potentially barring Viktor Orbán.
It shortens Constitutional Court judges’ terms to nine years and sets a 70-year retirement age.
Ágnes Forsthoffer will serve as interim president while parliament must elect a new head within 30 days, prompting Amnesty International to call the removal unfair.

Summary

Sulyok Rubber-Stamps

The amendment cites a “serious loss of confidence” in a president elected by Fidesz lawmakers in early 2024.
President Tamas Sulyok said he had no choice but to rubber-stamp the amendment because it met the law’s letter.
Viktor Orbán warned on Facebook that tyranny is now reality after the president’s removal.
Fidesz has faced high-profile resignations and a drop in public support since its April defeat.

Summary

Sulyok Warns

The amendment signed on July 18, 2026 limits the next president’s term until a new constitution takes effect or five years, whichever is first.
President Tamas Sulyok warned the amendment undermines the rule of law and called it a turning point for Hungary’s constitutional democracy.
Parliament is expected to elect the new president shortly after the July 18, 2026 signing.
The amendment marks the first constitutional change of Prime Minister Peter Magyar’s administration.

History

Historical Context

After the 1990 free elections that ended communist rule, Hungary adopted a constitution restoring democratic institutions and the 386-seat parliament, and setting term limits for top offices. In June 2026 the Tisza Party’s super-majority passed a new amendment reinstating a five-year presidential term limit, echoing the democratic charter adopted after the 1990 transition, sparking criticism from Amnesty International and Viktor Orbán.

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Sulyok Ends Term

President Tamás Sulyok signed a constitutional amendment that ends his term at midnight Monday.
The amendment limits MPs to three terms or 12 years, potentially barring Viktor Orbán.
It shortens Constitutional Court judges’ terms to nine years and sets a 70-year retirement age.
Ágnes Forsthoffer will serve as interim president while parliament must elect a new head within 30 days, prompting Amnesty International to call the removal unfair.

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