Kathmandu— Hungary's governing Tisza party has nominated Andras Baka, a former Supreme Court chief who was removed from his post by Viktor Orban's government in 2012, as its candidate for the country's presidency. The announcement, made by Prime Minister Peter Magyar on Saturday, represents a key component of the party's broader effort to restructure state institutions following its landslide election victory in April.

A Symbolic Move Toward Constitutional Reform

The decision to nominate Baka follows a recent constitutional amendment used by Tisza to remove Orban-era President Tamas Sulyok from office. While the Hungarian presidency carries primarily ceremonial powers, including limited authority to veto or refer legislation, the nomination is being viewed as a heavily symbolic gesture toward the country's legal landscape.

Prime Minister Peter Magyar stated on Facebook that the nomination, which was decided via a secret ballot within the party's parliamentary group, was "one of its most important decisions so far."

Legacy of Judicial Independence

Baka, 73, brings extensive legal experience to the candidacy, having served two terms as a judge on the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg. He was elected head of Hungary's Supreme Court in 2009 but was removed from the position two years later after publicly criticizing government reforms that he argued threatened judicial independence.

Tisza lawmakers emphasized that Baka has always "attached paramount importance to the principle of separation of powers, consistently standing up for the rule of law and judicial independence." The party noted that his background represents a "significant asset" as they work to establish a new constitutional order for Hungary.

Political Friction and Opposition Boycott

The nomination has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition Fidesz party. Fidesz has announced it will boycott the upcoming vote, accusing the Tisza government of employing authoritarian tactics, though the governing party has denied such allegations.

Baka's previous dismissal remains a point of international contention. The European court previously ruled that his removal violated his rights to a fair trial and freedom of expression, a judgment the Council of Europe noted Hungary has failed to fully implement.

Baka is expected to face a parliamentary vote on Tuesday, where Tisza currently holds a constitutional majority.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.