Charm and connections may shape Parmelin succession

The search for Guy Parmelin’s successor on Switzerland’s Federal Council is still open, but preparations are already under way, SRF reports. Advisers say candidates need political skill and expertise, as well as the ability to win people over.

“Federal councillors are not necessarily the best people who are elected, particularly when it comes to support from other parties, but those who deal best with others,” said Lorenz Furrer, a co-owner of a consulting agency who coaches candidates. The Swiss German word “gmögig,” meaning easy to get along with, may be a useful common denominator for a successful candidate, he said.

Furrer advised Markus Ritter, a member of parliament from St Gallen, on his 2025 candidacy. Candidates seeking a strong chance of election should build a network early and establish contacts with other parties, he said. The ability to maintain relationships across parliamentary groups and other circles, and win their support, is crucial.

Martin Pfister, who joined the Federal Council in 2025 as an outsider, had little name recognition in Bern but followed a strategy that worked, said his adviser at the time, communications consultant David Schärer. Timing is one of the main pitfalls, he said. Candidates should wait until others see them as the necessary choice before officially joining a ticket. Declaring interest too early, without support from their own political base, can jeopardise a bid.

Candidates also need to strike a balance in how they present themselves, Schärer said. They should have some distinctive traits, but avoid being too polarising. A clear position and personality can come at the cost of polarisation, he said.

The makeup of the Federal Council, a candidate’s cultural background and gender can also affect the outcome. These are factors that coaching and money cannot change.