Swiss President Alain Berset announced on Wednesday that he will step down at the end of this year and depart from Switzerland’s multi-party cabinet, where he has served for 11 years. Berset, aged 51, belongs to the left-leaning Social Democrats and has held the positions of health and interior minister, playing a key role in managing the country’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Swiss presidency is a rotating position, with each member of the seven-person Swiss cabinet serving for one year. The presidency holds no greater authority than the other cabinet members.
During a press conference in Bern on Wednesday, Berset clarified that his decision was not a resignation but an announcement that he would not seek re-election after the current legislative session. The Swiss general elections are scheduled for October. Berset emphasized the importance of avoiding prolonged stays in office, stating that surpassing 12 years would lead one to consider themselves irreplaceable. He highlighted that institutions hold more significance than individuals.
When asked about his future plans, Berset told reporters that, apart from practicing yoga, he has no specific endeavors in mind after leaving the cabinet.
