Péter Róna: Justice Minister Varga was misled in pardon case; President Sulyok should resign

Péter Róna, a commentator, stated that Justice Minister Judit Varga was misled regarding the presidential pardon case, suggesting she acted based on the assumption that the procedural process was being followed by the relevant department. Róna also described the constitutional amendment proposal, widely known as 'Lex Orbán,' as a "legal monstrosity."

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She, as the guardian of the democratic state, should have checked what shortcomings had arisen, but she did not do it. She is fundamentally mistaken in believing that she has no political duties, or that she consciously evades the scope of duties entrusted to her by the fundamental law.

Róna argued that Varga, in her role as a guardian of the democratic state, failed to identify procedural shortcomings. He asserted that she is mistaken in believing she has no political duties, or that she is deliberately avoiding the responsibilities assigned to her by the fundamental law. The constitution, Róna pointed out, provides the head of state with at least two political tools to fulfill their responsibilities: the right to participate in and speak at National Assembly sessions, and the right to propose legislation.

Since President Tamás Sulyok confirmed in an interview that he would not undertake these duties, Róna believes the conditions for his impeachment are met without needing to amend the constitution. He explained that one-fifth of the National Assembly members can initiate impeachment proceedings, which require a two-thirds majority vote. The final decision on impeachment rests with the Constitutional Court. Róna expressed confidence that even a court composed of Fidesz members would not reject such a motion, as Sulyok's credibility would be in tatters by the time the case reached the court.

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The constitutional amendment proposal, known as 'Lex Orbán,' is a legal monstrosity.

Róna suggested that the current government should pursue Sulyok's impeachment instead of pursuing constitutional amendments. This approach, he argued, would acknowledge the functioning of different branches of power and demonstrate that the government is not seeking absolute rule. He considers it more likely that Sulyok will resign from his post. Róna also mentioned the possibility of introducing direct presidential elections as another option. He further commented on a proposed amendment limiting the prime minister to eight years in office, stating it should be withdrawn, as such a restriction does not fit within a parliamentary democracy but rather a presidential system. He characterized this proposal as a "legal monstrosity, a Lex Orbán."

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Sulyok Tamás will resign.