Hungary’s PM launches drive to free country from Orban’s ‘mafia’ | Politics News
Hungary’s Prime Minister Launches Major Reform Initiative Following Leadership Change
Published June 22, 2026
Hungary’s Prime Minister Peter Magyar has initiated a comprehensive reform agenda aimed at dismantling the political framework established by former Prime Minister Viktor Orban. During a speech to parliament on Monday, Magyar outlined a series of economic, political, and legal reforms under the banner of “Operation Cleansing Fire.”
The proposed measures include drafting a new constitution, establishing an anti-corruption office, and initiating the process to remove President Tamas Sulyok, who was appointed by Orban.
In his address, Magyar emphasized the need to liberate Hungary from what he described as the “political and economic mafia” that has dominated the country for the past 16 years. He assumed office in April, succeeding Orban, who had led the Fidesz party during a period marked by claims of systemic corruption and growing ties with Russia.
Magyar’s administration, representing the Tisza Party, faces a significant challenge in reestablishing governmental integrity. The government aims to implement reforms that would enable Hungary to access 16.4 billion euros (approximately $19 billion) in EU funds, which had been frozen due to concerns over the rule of law during Orban’s tenure.
The removal of Sulyok is particularly critical to this effort, as Magyar has called for his resignation and has proposed a constitutional amendment to facilitate his ousting. Although the presidency in Hungary carries limited formal authority, the president can delay legislation by referring it back to parliament or sending it to the Constitutional Court.
Sulyok has denied any political agenda. In response to Magyar’s speech, Fidesz lawmaker Gergely Gulyas characterized the remarks as “slanderous and appalling.”
Should Sulyok be removed, the proposed reforms would allow for the election of a new president with a maximum term of five years. A constitutional review process, including public discussions, is scheduled to commence in September and will be subject to a referendum.
Other recommended changes include imposing a mandatory retirement age of 70 for judges on the Constitutional Court, which would force Orban ally Peter Polt to step down, and limiting lawmakers’ tenures to 12 years.
Magyar highlighted that corruption has significantly impacted Hungary’s economy, costing the nation between 8 and 10 percent of gross domestic product in recent years. He pledged that the new anti-corruption authority would be staffed by the nation’s top talent, including experienced police officers and investigators.
Earlier this month, Hungarian lawmakers approved a constitutional amendment to limit prime ministerial terms to eight years, effectively barring Orban from returning to power. MPs also voted to dissolve the Sovereignty Protection Office, a controversial entity established in 2023 to safeguard Hungary against foreign influence and used to investigate political critics. Human Rights Watch had urged the closure of this office, advocating for prompt actions to meet EU rule of law requirements related to judicial independence and anti-corruption measures.
