Hungary’s opposition leader, Péter Magyar, shared insights in an interview with the 444 portal about his party, Tisza, and its plans for a constitutional amendment. This will aim to limit the tenure of any prime minister to a maximum of 8 years, applying retroactively to Viktor Orbán.
In the interview, Magyar highlighted that the constitutional amendment would restrict the prime minister’s term to two four-year terms, effectively capping the position at eight years. This rule, if enacted, would prevent Orbán from seeking re-election.
Magyar stated, “The Hungarian people have observed the implications of allowing a single individual to serve as prime minister for 16 or 20 years with unchecked authority.”
He expressed concerns about the erosion of the rule of law, the dismantling of the system of checks and balances, and the prioritisation of personal interests over those of the country.
Viktor Orbán has held the office of Prime Minister since 1998, with a brief period from 2002 to 2010 when he was out of office. Since his return in 2010, he has established a governance model characterised by significant media control, restrictions on judicial independence, limits on fundamental freedoms, and increased public corruption. Orbán is the longest-serving prime minister in Hungarian history.
In the same interview, Magyar conveyed strong confidence in Tisza’s position in the upcoming elections, asserting that the likelihood of their electoral defeat is “zero.”
Hungary’s parliamentary elections are on 12 April. Current polls show Tisza leading, with 58% support among determined voters, compared to 35% for Fidesz.
