Hungary's PM seeks non-partisan presidential successor amid public suggestions

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is reportedly seeking a successor for President Tamás Sulyok, with a stated preference for a candidate lacking a political background. This criterion could potentially apply to figures like former Speaker of Parliament László Kövér or current Constitutional Court President Tamás Sulyok himself, though the emphasis is on a non-partisan figure.

Online discussions and public forums have seen various names emerge. Chess grandmaster Judit Polgár has been frequently suggested, particularly after playing a game with Orbán at a recent US Independence Day event in Budapest. Nobel laureate Katalin Karikó is another name circulating in more serious speculation, as noted by the publication Origo.

Beyond these prominent suggestions, the internet's meme culture has also contributed, with humorous nominations including "Hide the Pain Harold" (András Arató), Alekos Nagy, and Beton Hofi. The article also touches upon Magyar Péter's stated desire for a candidate without political ties and the ongoing debate about potentially electing the president directly, a concept previously considered in 1989 and discussed by Orbán multiple times.

The presidential term can last five years or be shorter, and the current situation arises after Tamás Sulyok's resignation. The possibility of a direct presidential election, which was blocked by a referendum in 1989, remains a topic of discussion but is not currently on the agenda.