Hungary Limits Prime Ministers to Eight Years

The Hungarian National Assembly has approved a constitutional amendment barring anyone who has served as prime minister for a total of eight years from holding the office again. The measure means former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán would no longer be eligible to return as prime minister.

As the proposal involved a constitutional amendment, its adoption required a two-thirds majority in parliament. Lawmakers approved the measure by 135 votes to 50, with six abstentions.

Orban reacted to the vote on social media, writing: "They passed the 'Lex Orban.' That was the most pressing issue. If you need me, I'll be here."

The amendment also includes several other provisions. It allows the state to reclaim the assets and founding rights of public-interest asset management foundations that perform public functions, making it possible to dissolve such foundations.

In addition, the amendment provides for the dissolution of the Office for the Protection of Sovereignty.

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