Marcel Dettling Elected as New Leader of Switzerland’s Central Democratic Union
Photo: SRF.ch
Marcel Dettling, a staunch nationalist conservative and a parliamentarian from the canton of Schwyz, was elected as the new leader of Switzerland’s Central Democratic Union (UDC) on Saturday. The UDC, recognized as the country’s principal political force, convened a meeting of its delegates in Langenthal, northern Switzerland, where Dettling was unanimously chosen to steer the party. Marcel Dettling, 43, was the solitary candidate in the race for the party’s leadership position. His election comes at a time when the UDC continues to consolidate its influence following a dominant performance in the Swiss legislative elections held in October. Dettling’s ascent to the party’s helm is notable, as he has been a vocal advocate for stringent immigration policies and a restrictive approach to the right to asylum – views that resonate with the party’s conservative base. Prior to his election as party leader, Dettling held the position of campaign director, a role in which he significantly contributed to the UDC’s legislative success. His leadership style and policies are expected to follow the party’s existing trajectory, which emphasizes Swiss sovereignty, traditional values, and skepticism towards the European Union’s influence.
