BUDAPEST (Reuters) – Tamas Sulyok, the chief of Hungary’s Constitutional Court, has been elected as the country’s next president by the parliament on Monday. This decision comes two weeks after the unexpected resignation of Katalin Novak, a close ally of conservative Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Novak stepped down from her largely ceremonial role as president amid mounting pressure for pardoning a man involved in covering up sexual abuse in a children’s home.
The swift election of Sulyok is seen as a move to help Orban regain the political initiative after a scandal that appeared to contradict one of his party’s core values, its commitment to traditional family and Christian principles. Parliament elected Sulyok for a five-year term with the support of lawmakers from Orban’s ruling party, which holds a strong majority.
Sulyok, in a statement following his nomination, expressed his belief that upholding the fundamental values of the law is crucial to serving the public good and promoting national unity, both as a lawyer and as President of the Republic. He also pledged transparency in his decision-making process regarding presidential pardons and honors.
Having held the position of Hungary’s top court president since 2016, Sulyok received this mandate with the support of lawmakers from the Fidesz ruling party, as well. He is expected to assume his new role on March 5.
By electing Sulyok as the next president, Hungary aims to move past the controversy surrounding Novak’s resignation and focus on upholding the rule of law and maintaining the country’s political stability. Sulyok’s background in law and his experience as the head of the Constitutional Court are expected to bring credibility to his leadership as president.
The appointment of Sulyok signifies Orban’s commitment to maintaining control over key institutions in Hungary and ensuring that his policies align with the party’s conservative values. Sulyok’s election also reflects the continued dominance of Orban’s ruling party in shaping the country’s political landscape.
As Sulyok prepares to assume office, there is anticipation for how he will navigate the challenges facing Hungary, including issues related to the rule of law, human rights, and democratic governance. His tenure as president will be closely monitored both domestically and internationally.
The transition of power from Novak to Sulyok marks a significant moment in Hungary’s political landscape and sets the stage for a new chapter in the country’s governance. The outcome of Sulyok’s presidency will have implications for Hungary’s standing on the global stage and its relations with other European Union member states.
With his background in law and his commitment to upholding the values of the legal system, Sulyok is poised to lead Hungary through a period of transition and potential reforms, as the country grapples with internal challenges and external pressures. His presidency is likely to shape the trajectory of Hungary’s political development in the years to come.
(Reporting by Krisztina Than and Boldizsar Gyori; editing by Christina Fincher and Andrew Heavens)
