Novak (44) is the minister with no portfolio responsible for family policy in the Orban government. She is supposed to replace Janos Ader in the highest office of the state. The second term of office of the president, who also comes from the right-wing national Fidesz party, expires next spring.
Parliament elects the holder of the highest office in the state. The election of Novak is deemed to have been secured after Orban’s appointment. The Fidesz Group has an overwhelming majority in the parliament. A term of office lasts five years – there is the possibility of re-election.
Novak would be the first woman in the highest office since the democratic transition in 1989 – and the youngest. The Fidesz politician is considered a loyal vicarious agent of the Orban system. As Family Minister, she supports the course of the powerful Prime Minister, which aims to discriminate against sexual minorities and upgrade traditional gender roles.
The head of state has limited power in Hungary. It can delay the enactment of laws. In addition, the President issues the government mandate after parliamentary elections. The new president will be elected by the current parliament. In April parliamentary elections are due, in which the opposition wants to stand united for the first time, which is why the outcome of the election is considered open.