Carole Melly-Basili Joins Race for Valais Council of States

Carole Melly-Basili challenges Christophe Darbellay for the Council of States in Valais

On October 23, 2026, 38-year-old attorney and notary Carole Melly-Basili officially announced her candidacy for the Council of States in Valais, setting up a contested internal race against fellow centrist Christophe Darbellay, as reported by RTS. The centrist politician made her announcement Thursday evening during the general assembly of the local section of Le Centre, as indicated by the daily newspaper Le Nouvelliste.

The candidate from Sierre is vying to succeed outgoing senator Marianne Maret. The local section of Le Centre will hold an internal vote in March 2027 to select its official candidate for the federal elections scheduled for October 2027. Le Centre du Valais romand devra donc opérer un choix entre les candidats, qui peuvent encore se déclarer jusqu’au 14 décembre.

The contest between a political veteran and a fresh challenger

Melly-Basili enters the race facing a significant name recognition gap against Christophe Darbellay, an established political figure with deep experience in federal affairs. While Darbellay brings immediate visibility to the contest, Melly-Basili highlights her background as a practicing attorney running an office of about ten employees, alongside her legislative experience. She noted that she has nothing to lose, stating that some people tried to discourage her because they thought it was risky, but declaring: I have no need to apologize for daring. She added that people support her, but nobody pushed her to run. Observers specializing in the Grand Council note that she counts and is listened to. She also represents a woman in a canton where women are represented in Bern solely by Marianne Maret.

She has served as a deputy in the Grand Council since 2021, following a stint as a substitute deputy starting in 2017, and currently holds the role of vice-head of her parliamentary group. Melly-Basili told RTS that she wants to demonstrate that there is an active new generation within the regional party, representing citizens working in the private economy who have young children. She also stated on the airwaves of Rhône FM: I am convinced that through work, through my seriousness, through my training, and through my years in Parliament, I can bring something. Regarding her view on the legislative role, she described it as the most beautiful of legislative functions.

Security and consensus building as campaign pillars

During her presentation at the local party assembly, Melly-Basili pointed to the issue of security as a central theme of her upcoming campaign. She analyzed her approach by noting: I believe I know how to listen and propose consensus. To find the right path, you need transparency and concessions, a bit like in a parliament.

Candidates have until December 2026 to enter race

The nomination process now enters a crucial phase as regional members prepare to weigh their options. Candidates have until December 14, 2026, to enter the race. Following the close of declarations, Le Centre du Valais romand will organize its internal vote in March 2027 to determine whether the party will back the experienced executive councillor or the younger challenger seeking to represent a different demographic in Bern.