Economy Minister Johann Schneider-Ammann has proposed Roman Bouteiller take the coveted role as Secretary of State for Education and Research.

In Bern the recommendation is stirring controversy.

Some say Bouteiller is far from qualified for the role and that his appointment would pose a conflict of interest as he is the president of the Ammann Group board, the minister of the economy’s former company.

Social Democrat Geraldine Savary is a member of the commission for education and research.

She spoke to RTS radio programme Forum last night:

“I’m more than angry. If this decision is confirmed by Mr. Schneider Ammann we have to ask whether he’s confused the department of education with that of the economy. To make a choice out of such a small circle for such an important job shows he doesn’t understand what the role is about—or even how we work in this country.”