**Former Judge András Baka Elected as Hungarian President Amid Political Transition**
Hungary's parliament has elected András Baka, a distinguished former judge and ex-head of the Supreme Court, as the new president of Hungary. The election took place amid significant political changes following the recent rise of Prime Minister Péter Magyar's government. Baka, 73, received overwhelming support in the parliament, securing 140 votes to just 6 against, despite a walkout by members of the ruling Fidesz party, which had previously favored another candidate, Tamás Sulyok.
Baka's presidency is expected to be largely ceremonial, as the role of the Hungarian president is primarily figurehead in nature. However, his election comes at a time of considerable upheaval in Hungary's political landscape, as Magyar's administration seeks to dismantle the extensive political and economic structures established by former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Baka's responsibilities will include overseeing the drafting of a new constitution intended to replace the one introduced by Orbán in 2011.
In his inaugural address to parliament, Baka emphasized the importance of dialogue and inclusivity in the process of creating a new constitution. "We cannot build the new Hungary on revenge," he stated, acknowledging the mixed sentiments within society, where some feel liberated and hopeful, while others experience disappointment and uncertainty. He characterized these feelings as a natural aspect of a democratic society.
The political climate has shifted dramatically since Magyar took office in early May. His government has swiftly enacted 27 new laws and made two amendments to the constitution, including the cancellation of various states of emergency that Orbán had previously declared. These states of emergency had allowed Orbán to govern by decree during crises such as the migrant situation, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the war in Ukraine. Additionally, the controversial Sovereignty Protection Office, which was used to target critical journalists and NGOs, has been abolished, replaced by a new National Asset Recovery and Protection Office tasked with investigating allegations of corruption related to the former government.
The Fidesz party, which has dominated Hungarian politics for over a decade, has accused the current government of establishing a "tyranny," reflecting the deep divisions within the political sphere. Ironically, Baka himself was removed from his position as president of the Supreme Court in 2011 due to his attempts to uphold the rule of law against Fidesz's encroachments.
Public service media in Hungary has also undergone significant changes, with radio and television broadcasts halted since July 9 as part of a revamp aimed at restoring their independence from government influence. This move is part of a broader effort to distance the media from its previous role as a tool for Fidesz propaganda.
Under the recent constitutional amendments, term limits have been imposed on the prime minister and members of parliament, restricting the prime minister to two terms and MPs to three. The Constitutional Court's authority to review parliamentary acts, which had been curtailed by Fidesz, has been reinstated, signaling a potential shift toward greater judicial oversight.
Despite the expectations of some that Baka will serve as a compliant figurehead, he has expressed his commitment to resisting the trend of excessive reliance on powerful leaders. In a recent interview, he articulated his belief that the state exists to serve the people, not itself. Baka's election is seen as a transitional move, as his presidency is expected to last only until the new constitution is enacted, or for a maximum of five years.
Baka's extensive legal background includes a 17-year tenure as Hungary's judge at the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, where he gained respect for his commitment to human rights and legal principles. He has stated that he does not consider himself a political figure, but rather someone who has engaged with politics through his legal expertise.
As Hungary navigates this period of transformation, the role of András Baka as president will be closely watched, particularly as the country seeks to redefine its political identity in the wake of the Orbán era.