Alain Berset, the 51-year-old President of the Swiss Confederation, announced on Wednesday that he would be leaving his government position at the end of the year. As the Minister of Health, he played a prominent role in leading the fight against the pandemic and has been a member of the government since 2012. “It’s the right time to leave,” he stated during a press conference.

“I have informed the Federal Council that I plan to step down from the government at the end of this year,” said Alain Berset. “I feel that I have accomplished what is possible. I have given it my all,” continued the President, who is the most popular member of the Federal Council.

The seats in the federal executive branch are divided among the major parties according to a “magic formula” that has evolved over time but emphasizes the spirit of compromise that characterizes Swiss democracy.

Swiss citizens will head to the polls on October 23 to renew the 200 seats in the National Council and 45 out of the 46 seats in the Council of States. When asked about his future plans, Alain Berset jokingly replied, “Someone told me today is yoga day. Maybe I should start doing yoga.”

On a more serious note, he indicated that there is no specific plan yet, as the decision not to seek re-election as a Federal Councillor was clear, and he hasn’t had time to reflect on what comes next. The socialist leader has served as President of the Confederation for the second time, a rotating one-year position that Federal Councillors combine with their ministries. The current Minister of Defense and Sports, Viola Amherd, will succeed him in 2024,” she concluded.