Introduction
The recent resignation of Antonio Hodgers after twelve years on the Geneva Executive Council has set the stage for a politically charged election. The upcoming vote is critical for the Greens (Verts), who have maintained representation in Geneva’s executive since 1997. As they prepare for the election, their candidate, Nicolas Walder, and a diverse array of rivals highlight the shifting alliances in the political landscape.
Key Players in the Election
Nicolas Walder, 59, has emerged as the Greens’ leading candidate to retain their foothold in government. With extensive political experience, including his time as part of the executive in Carouge and as a national council member since 2019, Walder aims to secure this pivotal seat. His candidacy is bolstered by support from the Socialist Party, but he isn’t the only representative of the left.
Rémy Pagani, the former mayor of Geneva and current municipal councilor, is vying for the seat as a candidate for the Union populaire, a party further to the left. At 71, Pagani hopes to engage voters from lower-income neighborhoods who historically abstain from voting.
Right-Wing Fragmentation
The right wing enters the race divided, eager to capture the vacant seat left by Hodgers and tilt the executive’s balance. With a right-wing majority in the Grand Council, winning this seat could solidify their influence for the remainder of the legislative term. However, the previous strategy that saw a successful coalition between the PLR, Le Centre, UDC, and MCG has faltered. Without a long-term shared vision, these parties are once again competing independently.
Right-Wing Candidates
Three prominent right-wing candidates will contest on September 28. The UDC has put its president, Lionel Dugerdil, forward, following a successful municipal election campaign. Dugerdil, a winegrower and parliamentarian, has the backing of the PLR, which has advocated for a united front on the right.
Le Centre, distancing itself from previous alliances, collaborates with the Green Liberals to nominate Xavier Magnin, a former administrative councilor from Plan-les-Ouates. Meanwhile, MCG candidate Maikl Gerzner, an attorney with no political experience, steps onto the scene alone after the party’s recent absence from the Executive Council.
Outsider Candidates
In addition to the main political parties, five candidates from outside the traditional framework are also contesting. However, their chances appear limited according to political analysts. Béatrice Berthet A Porta represents LOCAL, advocating for local businesses based on her background as a former Swiss champion in para-skiing. Anastasia-Natalia Ventouri, running on an anti-corruption platform under the Ensemble pour l’Evolution name, and Olivier Pahud, who aims to promote citizen assemblies via Evolution Suisse, are also in the mix.
Other contenders include retired professor Philippe Oberson, who campaigns with Le Peuple d’Abord to address issues like traffic congestion, and Rémi Baudouï, representing the party Geneva. Can do better, pushing for a moratorium on land development.
Looking Ahead
The crowded field and varied political factions suggest that achieving an absolute majority on September 28 is unlikely. Should the election proceed without any candidate gaining the necessary votes, a second round is scheduled for October 19, during which new alliances may emerge based on initial results.
Conclusion
As the Geneva Council election approaches, the Greens face significant challenges from both established right-wing factions and a diverse group of new candidates. This election will be a test of their political resilience and a potential pivot point for Geneva’s governance.
