Swiss liberal political group seeks new leadership

Operation Libero must look for a new president Keystone-SDA

The liberal Swiss political movement Operation Libero, set up to counter the rise of the far right, has seen its two co-presidents hand in their notice.

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Sanija Ameti and Stefan Manser-Egli have announced their departure. The group was set up in 2014 after the Swiss People’s Party initiative to limit immigration was accepted by voters.

The two co-presidents announced their decision in the online magazine Republik. “Operation Libero now needs a fully committed co-presidency to tackle the coming year, which will be packed with votes,” said Manser-Egli.

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Next spring, he will have spent six years as co-president, and Ameti five. “That’s a long time for a very rewarding and exciting job; but let’s face it, this voluntary work is extremely exhausting,” adds Ameti.

They have decided that the time is right to pass on the baton. Between 2026-2028, a number of votes will be held on issues of importance to Operation Libero: “If we can create a new dynamic, our movement can play a decisive role in repelling the radical attacks on liberal democracy”.

According to Ameti, the timing is also right because Operation Libero will close 2025 with its best financial result in five years. “With donations and membership fees, we have raised more than CHF750,000.”

New priorities

Manser-Egli, 33, also points out that his priorities have changed. During his term of office, he became a father twice and is currently living in Amsterdam on a research trip.

Ameti, meanwhile, is finishing her thesis and now wants to devote herself to her career as a lawyer.

A former member of the Zurich Green Liberal Party, she was criticised in September 2024 after firing an air pistol at a picture of Jesus and Mary. The Zurich Public Prosecutor’s Office has lodged a complaint for infringement of freedom of belief and religion. The trial is scheduled for the end of January 2026.

Translated from French by DeepL/mga

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