Hungarian PM accuses ruling party of 'manual control' over president ahead of impeachment vote

Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar has accused the ruling Fidesz party of exerting "manual control" over President Tamás Sulyok, signaling a new political confrontation. Magyar's statement comes as Hungarian lawmakers are set to vote on a constitutional amendment that could pave the way for the president's impeachment.

Magyar, a prominent opposition figure, alleges that Fidesz, despite losing its parliamentary majority after 16 years in power in April's elections, is attempting to consolidate its influence through indirect means. The proposed constitutional amendment, scheduled for a vote on Monday evening, would alter the procedures for removing the president from office, potentially making it easier for the ruling coalition to act against Sulyok.

This move by Fidesz has been interpreted by critics as a power grab, seeking to undermine the independence of the presidency and further centralize control within the government apparatus. The opposition views the amendment as a direct attempt to manipulate the head of state and bypass democratic checks and balances. The outcome of the vote is expected to have significant implications for Hungary's political landscape and the balance of power.

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Fidesz has switched the president to manual control.