János Áder, Hungary’s former president, has voiced strong opposition to the proposed dismissal of the current President, Tamás Sulyok, labeling the move as a “constitutional coup.” Áder warned that such an action would breach Hungary’s constitutional framework. During a podcast appearance, he emphasized that political disputes should not serve as a basis for legal proceedings against the president. According to Áder, the Hungarian constitution mandates that a president can be removed solely through impeachment, which necessitates a two-thirds majority in parliament and evidence of constitutional or legal violations.
The contentious 17th amendment to Hungary’s Fundamental Law is at the heart of the debate. This amendment would compel President Sulyok to vacate his office immediately after it becomes effective. Áder criticized this approach, asserting that it circumvents the constitutionally established impeachment process and, in effect, constitutes retroactive legislation that is unconstitutional.
In response to allegations that President Sulyok inadequately managed specific political controversies, Áder dismissed these claims as mere political critiques rather than legitimate legal grounds for his removal. He underscored that such criticisms do not equate to constitutional or legal violations required for an impeachment process.
Áder warned of the broader implications of removing a sitting president through a constitutional amendment rather than adhering to the established legal procedure. He argued that doing so would jeopardize the legitimacy of the presidency and weaken the rule of law in Hungary. Furthermore, Áder cautioned that any successor appointed under these circumstances might face challenges to their constitutional authority and their ability to represent national unity.
