Alex Salmond, Former Scottish First Minister, Dies at 69

 

Alex Salmond, the former First Minister of Scotland and key figure in Scotland's push for independence, passed away at the age of 69. Salmond, who led the Scottish National Party (SNP) and Scotland’s government from 2007 to 2014, was widely known for bringing Scotland close to independence during the 2014 referendum. He stepped down after the unsuccessful campaign, handing leadership over to his deputy, Nicola Sturgeon.

Reports indicate that Salmond collapsed after delivering a speech in North Macedonia on Saturday. His death has left political figures and leaders across the UK in shock. Scotland’s current First Minister, John Swinney, expressed his deep sorrow, describing Salmond as a tireless advocate for Scottish independence who brought the SNP from the political fringes into government. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also paid tribute, calling Salmond a "monumental figure" who cared deeply for Scotland’s heritage and left a lasting political legacy.

Sturgeon, who succeeded Salmond, acknowledged their political differences in recent years but emphasized his significant role in modernizing the SNP and leading the country towards the 2014 referendum. She extended her condolences to Salmond’s family, including his wife, Moira.

Salmond's political career was marked by both his achievements and controversies. He was instrumental in transforming the SNP into the dominant political force in Scotland and played a key role in securing a historic victory for the party in 2011, leading to the 2014 referendum. However, his later years were clouded by allegations of sexual misconduct, from which he was acquitted in 2020.

Despite the controversies, Salmond remained an influential figure in Scottish politics, forming the Alba Party in 2021 to challenge the SNP's stance on a second referendum. Speculation suggested that Salmond was considering a return to frontline politics in the 2026 Scottish Parliament elections.

Salmond's legacy, both as a political leader and advocate for Scottish independence, will be remembered across the UK and beyond.