Valérie Dittli leaves Swiss center party, plans new political movement

Valérie Dittli, a controversial state councilor in the Vaud canton, announced she is leaving the center party just six months before the elections. In an interview with the newspaper "Le Temps," Dittli revealed her intention to establish a new political party.

"I had no other choice," Dittli stated, indicating a significant internal conflict or disagreement that led to her departure. She plans to run for a second term in the cantonal government under the banner of her new group, which she intends to name "Mouvement libéral."

Dittli's decision preempts a vote by the cantonal center party scheduled for the upcoming Wednesday. The party was expected to decide on whether to support Dittli's candidacy for re-election. Her move creates a new dynamic in the regional political landscape ahead of the elections.

The departure and formation of a new party by a sitting councilor signals a period of realignment and potential shifts in political allegiances within the Vaud canton. Further details on the "Mouvement libéral" and its platform are expected as Dittli formally launches her new political endeavor.