Hungary's president has until July 31 to sign a constitutional amendment that could trigger his removal from office. The measure passed parliament with 83% of votes in favor, according to official results.
The parliamentary vote
Lawmakers approved the amendment with overwhelming support. The 83% vote in favor indicates broad cross-party backing, though the exact margin and any opposition were not detailed. The amendment was introduced as a legislative proposal and cleared both chambers of parliament before reaching the president.
What the amendment would do
The text of the amendment has not been made public in full, but it is understood to create a mechanism that could lead to the president's removal. The specifics of that mechanism — whether it involves a vote of no confidence, a judicial review, or another process — remain unclear. What is known is that the president's own term could be cut short if he signs the bill into law.
The president's options
The president can sign the amendment, veto it, or send it to the Constitutional Court for review. Each choice carries political risk. Signing would enact a law that could end his presidency. Vetoing would send the bill back to parliament, which could override the veto with a two-thirds majority — a threshold the 83% vote suggests may be achievable. Referring the amendment to the Constitutional Court would delay the process but could also lead to a ruling that upholds or strikes down the measure.
What happens next
The deadline is July 31. The president has not yet indicated which course he will take. Political observers in Budapest are watching closely, as the decision will shape Hungary's political landscape for the remainder of the year. If the president signs, the removal process could begin immediately. If he vetoes, parliament may move to override. Either way, the clock is ticking.
