Hungarian Parliament Passes Law Capping Prime Minister Tenure to Eight Years

Hungary’s parliament has passed a constitutional amendment that caps the total time a prime minister can serve at eight years.

The measure is retroactive, effectively barring former leader Viktor Orbán, who governed for two decades, from returning to the premiership, according to Politico on June 15.

The vote saw 135 lawmakers in favor and 50 against. The initiative was introduced by the Tisza party, led by current Prime Minister Péter Magyar.

The party, which holds a constitutional majority, is implementing its campaign promises to overhaul the political system and move the country back toward liberal democracy.

The new law also shutters the Sovereignty Protection Office. The European Commission had previously flagged this institution for violating European Union law, and critics have long described it as a tool used to consolidate power.

Additionally, the legislation authorizes the government to dismantle public trust funds that were previously used to transfer control of national universities to individuals affiliated with the former administration.

Read more

Category

World

A Timeline of Hungary’s Moves Against Ukraine Under Orbán’s Rule

Apr 09, 2026 16:47

The bill now requires a signature from President Tamás Sulyok, a political appointee of the previous government. While the President could attempt to block the measure, the parliamentary majority has the power to override a veto during a second vote.

This amendment follows an initial proposal introduced by the Tisza party in May, which sought to limit a prime minister’s tenure to two terms.

During the heated election campaign in April 2026, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán consistently shifted focus away from Hungary’s stagnating economy and domestic issues by placing the blame on Ukraine.

Fidesz, his political party, systematically attempted to link every government scandal to alleged Ukrainian disinformation, including an unsubstantiated claim by Orbán that 400 Ukrainian agents were operating within the country to influence the election outcome.

Support our frontline reporters

We report from the front lines to show the reality of war. Your support helps us stay there and tell the stories that matter.

DONATE NOW