Pierre-Alain Fridez: Swiss Politician Retires After 30-Year Career | F-35 Opposition & Jura Legacy

Bern, Switzerland – After 14 years in the Swiss National Council and a 30-year career in politics, Pierre-Alain Fridez, a member of the Social Democratic Party, formally concluded his parliamentary service on Friday. The Jurassian representative, known for his staunch opposition to the acquisition of F-35 fighter jets, delivered his farewell address amidst a debate over the future of Swiss defense policy.

Fridez’s departure comes earlier than the finish of his legislative term, a decision he previously announced in February, paving the way for his successor, Loïc Dobler, to assume the seat. He had initially been reluctant to seek re-election in 2023 but agreed to run at the urging of his party, concerned about maintaining their representation in the face of a strengthening right-wing alliance. However, he stipulated that he would only serve a portion of the modern term, a commitment he is now fulfilling.

A trained medical doctor, Fridez unexpectedly became a leading voice on military affairs during his time in parliament. He consistently challenged the rationale behind the F-35 purchase, questioning the cost and the ongoing development status of the aircraft. “How could we have chosen the F-35, an aircraft still in development at least until 2030?” he asked during a parliamentary session in September 2022, according to reports. He expressed regret that he was unable to sway more of his colleagues, lamenting that his warnings about the F-35 were initially dismissed as conspiracy theories.

Fridez’s opposition to the F-35 program was a defining feature of his political career. He authored books detailing his concerns, but acknowledged they did not reach a wide audience. He believes that time will ultimately vindicate his position, stating, “The time gives me reason!”

Beyond the F-35 debate, Fridez highlighted a particularly poignant moment from his career: the election of Elisabeth Baume-Schneider as the first Federal Councillor from the canton of Jura. As a scrutineer during the vote, he was the first to learn the outcome. “I cracked in front of the other scrutineers. I counted and I asked my neighbor to recount. My heart was beating and tears were coming out. And when I entered the room, we weren’t allowed to communicate the result, but people saw that I had an impossible face… It was particularly, very strong… I still shiver when I remember it,” he recalled.

Looking ahead, Fridez plans to return to his medical practice and spend more time with his family, including an expected fourth grandchild this summer. He expressed a desire for a simpler life, joking about accompanying his wife on errands, a routine he missed during his years in parliament.

The National Council is scheduled to hold a special session in April, at which time Loïc Dobler is expected to formally take over Fridez’s seat. The future of the F-35 program remains a subject of ongoing debate within the Swiss parliament.