The right-wing Swiss People's Party won its best-ever showing in general elections yesterday after a virulent anti-foreigner campaign that was widely denounced as racist, but failed to obtain the landslide victory it had been hoping for. The SVP, led by the controversial billionaire and Swiss Justice Minister Christoph Blocher secured almost 29 per cent of the vote and an extra six seats in parliament, the first exit polls suggested last night. Mr Blocher's campaign was dominated by the single issue of immigration. His party's election posters featured three white sheep standing on a red and white Swiss national flag kicking a black sheep out of the country. Alongside ran the slogan "more security!"
The right-wing Swiss People's Party won its best-ever showing in general elections yesterday after a virulent anti-foreigner campaign that was widely denounced as racist, but failed to obtain the landslide victory it had been hoping for.
The SVP, led by the controversial billionaire and Swiss Justice Minister Christoph Blocher secured almost 29 per cent of the vote and an extra six seats in parliament, the first exit polls suggested last night.
Mr Blocher's campaign was dominated by the single issue of immigration. His party's election posters featured three white sheep standing on a red and white Swiss national flag kicking a black sheep out of the country. Alongside ran the slogan "more security!"
Frank Delaney ~ Ireland
And something that is often ignored the SVP is split within itself. There is the Zürich-wing (Blocher) and the Bern-wing, who is lead by the other SVP counsellor in the Bundesrat, Samuel Schmid. The Bern-SVP is more human and Schmid seems to be a decent guy and is well respected. The problem is that Blocher gets the limelight.
Btw. just saw at the newspaper stand headlines that indicate the infighting within the SVP has already started. I know its still rumors, but it looks like Blocher wants to kick out the other SVP Bundesrat from the government. I don't think this will go down well with many SVP members.
