Federal councilor Simonetta Sommaruga (62) is absent for the time being. Her Ministry of Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (UVEK) announced this on Monday. The reason is the health condition of her husband, who is in the hospital.
Sommaruga is married to the writer Lukas Hartmann (78). In the hospital, this is “in good hands”, according to the UVEK. The department is not releasing any further information at this time and is asking that the privacy of the federal councilor and her husband be respected.
It is unclear how long Sommaruga will not be able to perform her Federal Council duties. When a federal councilor is absent, it is common for department representatives to replace her — for example, at committee meetings or appointments outside the administration. (SDA/lha)