Breaking: Mario-Charles Pertusio Elected President of Vaud Center, Sparking Leadership Uncertainty
The Vaud Center has a new leader. In a pivoting move during an extraordinary assembly last night in Lausanne, Mario-Charles Pertusio was elected as the new president of the party. This development emerges amid internal strife and a mounting storm following the Studer report on State Councilor Valérie Dittli.
Election Details
The trustee of Eysins and former Vaudois deputy prevailed over Gabriel Mühlebach with a narrow margin, capturing 31 votes to Mühlebach’s 19 from an assembly of fifty delegates. Immediately following the election, two high-ranking members of the presidency committee, Faustine Tsala and Gabriel Mühlebach, resigned in protest.
Background and Profile of Pertusio
Mario-Charles Pertusio is a 65-year-old political veteran who has held various roles within the party. Since 2007 to 2012, he has served as a deputy in the Grand Council of Vaud under the PDC banner. Pertusio made his foray into electoral politics in 2002 as a candidate for the Council of State.
Now, at the helm of the Vaud Center, he succeeds Ludovic Paschoud, who stepped down in March following the aftermath of the Studer report.
Resignations and Internal Politics
The resignations of Tsala and Mühlebach signified more than merely disagreement over Pertusio’s election. Their decision stemmed from Puisio’s assertive “right-wing” stance and the campaign dynamics allegedly influenced by Valérie Dittli. Mühlebach expressed disdain over Dittli’s role, describing her involvement as “central” and detrimental to fair campaigning.
Pertusio defended his election, emphasizing his commitment to unity and future-oriented goals. “I was neither the candidate of State Councilor Valérie Dittli nor of National Councilor Isabelle Chappuis. I simply wanted to be a president who could work in a municipality,” he stated in a recent interview with Forum.
The Road Ahead
Looking ahead, Pertusio has his sights set on key electoral deadlines, particularly the 2026 municipal elections and the 2027 cantonal and federal elections. His primary objective is to “save the seats currently held by the Vaud Center.”
Strategic Repercussions
The resonating influence of Valérie Dittli within the party’s dynamics remains a point of contention. Pertusio has underscored his independence: “The past belongs to the past […] I am at the service of a party and wish to work to save the seats currently held by the Vaud Center.” This stance begs the question whether there will be reconciliation within the party or a continued splintering of ideologies.
Stay tuned to archyde.com for the latest updates on this breaking news story and its unfolding implications on the future of the Vaud Center and Swiss politics. Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media to stay informed on the latest news and insights.