Chess grandmaster Judit Polgar has officially declined an invitation to serve as Hungary's president. The decision follows a public endorsement from the Tisza parliamentary group, which had backed her nomination late Sunday. In a statement posted to social media, Polgar explained that she does not feel she has the strength required to take on the historic responsibility of uniting a divided nation.
Despite declining the position, Polgar expressed her commitment to supporting a new, independent, and respected President of the Republic in the future. Magyar, a leader within the Tisza party, responded to her decision by thanking her for her contributions to Hungary and affirming that the public would continue to rely on her in other capacities.
The nomination process faced criticism from some observers, who noted that the selection of Polgar occurred without the broad public consultation that had been promised previously. The political landscape in Hungary remains in flux following a constitutional amendment last week that led to the removal of Tamas Sulyok, whose presidential mandate concluded on Monday.
Leaders of the governing Tisza party have advocated for the president to be elected directly by the public rather than through parliament. Magyar responded to Polgar's decision in a comment. As a result, any president elected under the current framework may only serve in a temporary role until a new constitution is adopted.
"Dear Judit, thank you for everything you have done for Hungary. I believe I can say, on behalf of millions of Hungarians, that even if in a different capacity, we will continue to count on you in the future," he wrote.
