“He never objected to the Fidesz leadership or the Fidesz government. Now, defending his seat for the first time, he objects,” Bálint Magyar, a former Hungarian cabinet minister, told POLITICO.
Blind Eye
The president’s unpopularity may explain why Magyar attacks him in harsh terms.
“After so much cowardice, turning a blind eye, and lying, how could you possibly represent the unity of this beautiful nation?” Magyar said in his initial parliamentary speech following his election win. “You cannot, in my opinion. Mr. President, depart with dignity while you can.”
In his POLITICO interview, Sulyok depicted himself as unfazed by such criticisms. He also avoided addressing questions about rule-of-law breaches during Orbán’s time and presented himself as an apolitical figure adhering to the law.
“My personal feelings and emotions hold no public law significance,” he stated. “I support the success of the new parliament and government as it aligns with the fundamental interest of every Hungarian.”
However, he noted that the constitutional crisis initiated by Magyar’s attempts to unseat him needed resolution.
“A constitutional crisis is detrimental to a country,” he remarked.
Besides disturbing domestic politics, Sulyok emphasized: “It tarnishes the country’s image and international standing.”
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