In a recent podcast appearance, former Hungarian President János Áder expressed strong opposition to the proposed removal of the current President, Tamás Sulyok, labeling the move as a “constitutional coup.” Áder warned that such actions would be a violation of Hungary’s constitutional framework. He emphasized that political disagreements should not be grounds for initiating legal actions against the president, underscoring that the nation’s constitution mandates an impeachment process for removal. This process requires a two-thirds majority in parliament and proof of constitutional or legal violations.
The controversy centers around the proposed 17th amendment to Hungary’s Fundamental Law, which would force President Sulyok to vacate his position as soon as the amendment is enacted. Áder criticized this approach, arguing that it circumvents the constitutional impeachment procedure and effectively constitutes retroactive legislation, which he deems unconstitutional. He dismissed allegations against Sulyok regarding inadequate responses to political controversies, framing them as mere political criticisms rather than legitimate legal infractions warranting removal.
Áder’s critique highlights the potential dangers of bypassing established legal protocols for removing a sitting president. He cautioned that altering the presidency through a constitutional amendment instead of the traditional legal process could severely undermine the institution’s legitimacy and erode the rule of law. Such a maneuver, he argued, would set a troubling precedent that could destabilize the office’s authority and the broader constitutional order.
The former president also raised concerns about the implications for any successor to Sulyok, should the amendment pass. He contended that a president installed under these contentious circumstances would face significant challenges regarding their constitutional legitimacy and their capacity to effectively represent national unity. Áder’s comments underscore the broader tensions between political maneuvering and constitutional adherence in Hungary’s current political climate.