The race to fill Viola Amherd's vacant Swiss Federal Council seat has narrowed to two candidates from the Mitte party: Markus Ritter and Martin Pfister.

Ritter, a seasoned politician and president of the Swiss Farmers' Association, is seen as the favorite due to his extensive network and political acumen.

However, his strong ties to agriculture and conservative circles may alienate progressive voters.

Pfister, a lesser-known figure and Zug's health director, brings integrity and regional representation from Central Switzerland, a region absent from the Federal Council for over 20 years.

Despite his limited national profile, his military rank and local popularity could work in his favor.

The selection process has highlighted internal challenges within the Mitte party, including a lack of female candidates and strategic unity.

As the Federal Assembly prepares to vote, the question remains whether it will adhere to the party's ticket or assert its independence in choosing the next Federal Councillor.