The Christian Democrats have put forward Viola AmherdExternal link, from the canton of Valais, who sits in the House of Representatives, as well as Heidi Z’graggenExternal link, a member of the cantonal government from the central Swiss canton of Uri, who, as yet, has no federal level experience.
There were no surprises with the nomination of Karin Keller-SutterExternal link, for the Radicals, as she had been a clear favourite beforehand. The Senate president from canton St Gallen has ambition: she was up for a ministerial position in 2010, but lost out to Schneider-Ammann. The second nominee is Senator Hans WickiExternal link, from canton Nidwalden, in central Switzerland.
The naming of the candidates puts an end to the months of speculation that followed the double resignation announcement, which came within the space of a few days in September.
Women – the big question
The big question has been how many women would be elected to the Federal Council. Commentators have argued that selecting two women to replace the outgoing ministers would do much to boost equality.
This would mean that three of the seven members of Switzerland’s executive body women, along with Justice Minister Simonetta Sommaruga.
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