David Spring, president of the SVP Ittigen (BE), has resigned from his position following multiple alleged racist remarks directed at his family by a fellow board member. Spring has also withdrawn his Grand Council candidacy and left the SVP party entirely.
The accusations center on Jürg Georg Tomman, also an Ittigen board member and former municipal councilor. These events have sparked significant discussion within the local political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- David Spring resigned as SVP Ittigen president due to alleged racist remarks.
- Spring also withdrew his Grand Council candidacy and left the SVP.
- Jürg Georg Tomman, a fellow board member, is accused of making the racist comments.
- The cantonal SVP has intervened, citing party-damaging behavior.
- SVP Ittigen will vote on Tomman's expulsion in mid-November.
Racist Remarks Led to Resignation
According to witnesses, David Spring endured several racist comments from Tomman during board meetings. Tomman allegedly told Spring that he was "not a real Swiss" because of his partner, a Black woman from Africa. These comments reportedly occurred over a period of time.
Further allegations include Tomman stating that people from Africa should be forcibly sterilized. The use of a racial slur was also reported during these interactions. These statements created an untenable environment for Spring within the party.
Timeline of Events
- November 2024: Ittigen municipal elections held.
- Early 2024: Jürg Georg Tomman joined Ittigen municipal council.
- November 2024: Tomman lost his municipal council mandate.
- October 2025: David Spring resigns from SVP Ittigen presidency.
- Mid-November 2025: SVP Ittigen plans a vote on Tomman's expulsion.
Spring's Stance on Racism
David Spring has made it clear that racism has no place in any political movement. He communicated his decision to the "Bund" newspaper via email, stating that collaboration with the SVP was no longer possible or sustainable for him. His departure highlights a firm stand against intolerance.
"Racist remarks are, for me, incompatible with the fundamental values of our party – respect, decency, and responsibility."
Spring's emphasis on party values underscores his belief that such behavior directly contradicts the principles the SVP claims to uphold. His decision to leave the party entirely demonstrates the severity of the alleged incidents.
Tomman Declines to Comment
Jürg Georg Tomman has refused to comment on the allegations. When contacted by the "Bund," he stated he had no comment and ended the call. This silence leaves many questions unanswered regarding his perspective on the reported incidents.
Tomman's refusal to address the claims has further fueled the controversy. His lack of response has been noted by party members and observers alike.
Jürg Georg Tomman's Background
Tomman unsuccessfully ran for the National Council in 2023 on the "Aufrecht Bern" list. His website previously listed "Schwurbeln" (a German term implying conspiracy theorizing or rambling) as a hobby, alongside reading and tennis. He has also expressed admiration for controversial author Daniele Ganser, whose theories he supports.
Tomman served one year on the Ittigen municipal council, stepping in for a resigning member in early 2024. He lost his mandate in November 2024, leaving the SVP without representation on the seven-member council.
Party Members Criticize Tomman
Tomman is now facing sharp criticism from within the Ittigen SVP. Several members told the "Bund" that he does not fit with the party, is not a democrat, and does not pursue policies for the good of the community. These internal criticisms suggest a broader dissatisfaction with his conduct.
The alleged remarks have created a rift within the local party section. Many members feel that Tomman's actions are detrimental to the SVP's image and mission in Ittigen.
Cantonal SVP Intervenes
The cantonal SVP has become involved due to the ongoing disputes. Aliki Panayides, managing director of SVP Bern, stated that Tomman's behavior is damaging to the party and constitutes grounds for expulsion according to party statutes. She emphasized that specific proof for each racist utterance is not always required.
"Mr. Tomman does not represent the values of the party."
Panayides confirmed that Tomman would be given legal hearing. He could avoid expulsion by voluntarily leaving the party. The SVP Ittigen plans to hold a members' assembly in mid-November to decide on his potential expulsion.
Panayides expressed regret over David Spring's resignation. She stated that she had not yet succeeded in convincing Spring to reconsider his decision. Spring's departure is seen as a loss for the local party section.
Impact on Ittigen Politics
The controversy surrounding Jürg Georg Tomman and David Spring's resignation has highlighted tensions within the SVP Ittigen. The upcoming vote on Tomman's expulsion will be a significant moment for the local party.
This situation also brings into focus the broader discussion about acceptable conduct and values within political parties. The outcome will likely influence the political landscape of Ittigen for the foreseeable future.