Viktor Orbán skips Fidesz protest against constitutional amendment, says he wouldn't divert focus

On July 9, 2026 the governing Fidesz party organized a demonstration in front of Budapest’s Sándor Palace to oppose the proposed 17th amendment to Hungary’s Fundamental Law, which would terminate the office of the republic president held by Sulyok Tamás. About three thousand supporters gathered, chanting slogans such as “Stop Önkény” and calling for the removal of Sulyok and other officials.

Party communication chief Havasi Bertalan explained that former prime minister Viktor Orbán deliberately did not attend the rally because his presence would “inevitably draw the focus onto himself rather than the issue,” and that his absence was a strategic decision. Despite not appearing in person, Orbán posted photos, a video and supportive messages on social media during and after the protest, praising the demonstrators and the cause. Media reports noted speculation about his whereabouts, with some claiming he was abroad or at the sports hospital, but the party’s official line emphasized the intentional nature of his non‑attendance.

The amendment is slated for a parliamentary vote in early July, and the protest forms part of a broader political debate over constitutional reforms championed by Prime Minister Magyar Péter and his allies.