Hungary limits prime minister's term to eight years

Hungary's parliament has enacted a constitutional amendment limiting the prime minister's term to a maximum of eight years, equivalent to two five-year terms. The Tisza Party, led by Prime Minister Péter Magyar, secured the necessary two-thirds majority to pass the reform, which was a key promise following Magyar's election victory on April 12. This move is intended to significantly curtail the power associated with the prime minister's office and dismantle what has been termed the 'Orbán system'.

The amendment passed with 135 votes in favor, 50 against, and six abstentions. The reform directly addresses the long tenure of former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who governed Hungary for a total of 20 years. The Tisza Party stated that the modification to the basic law aims to strengthen the checks and balances within the government and prevent the concentration of power.

This constitutional change marks a significant shift in Hungarian politics, signaling a move away from the extended leadership that characterized the previous era. The implementation of term limits is seen by proponents as a crucial step toward ensuring a more dynamic and accountable political landscape in Hungary.