Swiss UDC party sees veteran depart as radical newcomer rises

The Swiss People's Party (UDC) is witnessing a notable transition as two of its more controversial figures move in opposite directions. Andreas Glarner, a seasoned politician and member of the UDC since 1992, is stepping down from his role as a national councilor and president of the UDC in the canton of Aargau. Glarner, 63, has had a long career, including terms as mayor of Oberwil-Lieli and a cantonal deputy for nearly 15 years.

His departure is framed as a handover to "younger and more competent hands," though Glarner insists he faced no internal pressure. He leaves behind a legacy of strong right-wing stances, at times exceeding the party's official positions, which have occasionally caused internal friction.

Meanwhile, Sarah Regez, 32, represents the new guard within the UDC. Having joined the party only in 2021, she has rapidly ascended through its ranks, particularly within the youth wing and national strategy. After an unsuccessful bid for the national council in 2023, she has now secured a seat in the Grand Council of Basel-Country this year, following the election of Matthias Liechti to the Council of States.

Regez's political trajectory, from leading the national youth section's strategy to entering a cantonal legislature, highlights a generational shift within the party. Despite a more than 30-year age and experience gap between her and Glarner, both are noted for their close ideological alignment, often pushing the party further to the right.