Kathmandu— Hungary’s parliament confirmed Andras Baka, a former chief justice of the Supreme Court and vocal critic of Viktor Orban's government, as the country’s next president on Tuesday. The National Assembly voted 140 to six in favor of Baka, nominated by the Tisza party which holds a constitutional majority, with no abstentions. His election follows recent constitutional amendments that ousted the previous president, an Orban appointee, and represents a continued effort by the current government to dismantle the political system established during Orban’s sixteen years in power. Baka will assume office on August 19.

A Shift Away From Orban's Legacy

Baka’s appointment is widely viewed as another rejection of Orban’s policies and a signal of Hungary’s changing political landscape. He previously served two terms at the European Court of Human Rights and was appointed head of Hungary’s Supreme Court in 2009, but was removed from that position two years later after publicly criticizing government reforms he believed threatened judicial independence. The Tisza party nominated Baka on Saturday, stating his experience would be a valuable asset as they establish “a significant asset” for Hungary's new constitutional order.

Constitutional Changes and Political Opposition

The election of Baka comes after recent constitutional amendments that led to the ousting of former President Tamas Sulyok, an ally of Orban. These changes are part of a broader campaign by Tisza to dismantle the power structures built during Orban’s lengthy tenure. The party has also initiated reforms in media regulation, established an anti-corruption task force, and implemented an eight-year term limit for prime ministers—effectively preventing Orban from returning to office. Opposition party Fidesz, which previously dominated Hungarian politics until its defeat in April's elections, boycotted Tuesday’s vote, accusing Tisza of authoritarian tactics.

Ceremonial Role With Symbolic Weight

While the Hungarian presidency is largely ceremonial, with limited power to veto legislation or influence policy directly, Baka’s appointment carries significant symbolic weight. His history as a critic of Orban underscores the new government's commitment to judicial independence and a departure from the previous administration’s policies.

Andras Baka will be sworn into office on August 19th, solidifying the ongoing shift in Hungary’s political direction following the recent electoral changes.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.