Viktor Orban was removed from power by Prime Minister Peter Magyar in an April election, ending his 16-year tenure. Magyar has pledged to bring about a "regime change."
On Monday, Hungary’s parliament approved a constitutional amendment that limits prime ministers to a maximum of eight years in office, effectively preventing former leader Viktor Orban from ever returning to the role.
Prime Minister Peter Magyar defeated Orban in the April election after 16 years, securing a two-thirds parliamentary majority that enables his party to reverse or alter legislation enacted by Orban’s Fidesz, including constitutional provisions.
The amendment fulfilled a key campaign promise of pro-European Union conservative Magyar, who unseated Orban in the April vote and vowed extensive reforms as part of a "regime change."
Magyar argued that unlimited tenure could result in a concentration of power, citing his predecessor as an example. Critics had accused Orban of repeatedly adjusting Hungary’s political framework to maintain a strong hold on authority.
Orban’s party opposed term limits, contending that they might limit the will of the people.
The amendment passed parliament with 135 votes in favor, 50 against, and six abstentions. Under Hungarian law, such a measure can be enacted with a two-thirds supermajority without requiring a referendum.