“Why are you resigning in the midst of the energy crisis?” That was the first question Simonetta Sommaruga got after her resignation. The accusation rang out here: it was irresponsible to run away now.
In fact, it’s the exact opposite. The worst has been averted: according to the latest calculations, Switzerland will not be in the dark or cold this winter.
But above all: a federal councilor works seven days a week, often twelve hours. She must always be operational and always give 100 percent to the task at hand. Can you do that if you’re concerned about a family member’s health?
It shows responsibility
Sommaruga has found an answer for itself: no. That shows a sense of responsibility – towards the country, towards colleagues in the government and towards her own family.
With this resignation, Sommaruga is sending a strong signal that some politicians and managers should heed: the job isn’t everything. No one is irreplaceable.