Switzerland has a new federal councillor. Beat Jans is from Basel and is a member of the left-wing Social Democrats. He’s 59 years old.
He beat out two of his party rivals in three rounds of voting. Federal Councillors are elected by parliament, not the people.
Jans has been a national parliamentarian and is chair of the Basel City parliament.
Observers say he’s a good bridge builder and is slightly understated.
There’s also a new federal chancellor, Victor Rossi. Often called the eighth member of the seven-member council, the chancellor does not have a vote, but he drives the agenda for the Federal Council and can advise in meetings.
Rossi knows the role as he’s been vice-chancellor since 2019.
Both new members take up their role on the 1st January.
Several injured in random knife attack
Push for Geneva to host song contest
Unusual snowfalls on high passes
Possible charge for Lauterbrunnen
Accident caused major disruption - man seriousy injured
