Alex Salmond, the former First Minister of Scotland and the head of the Alba Party, has sadly passed away at the age of 69. His death occurred earlier today at the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy Forum, nestled in the picturesque lakeside town of Ohrid, North Macedonia. This information was confirmed by Chris McEleny, the party’s general secretary.
Having just delivered a speech at the forum, Mr. Salmond reportedly suffered a heart attack, although an autopsy will take place to verify the actual cause of his passing.
Mr. Salmond held the office of First Minister from 2007 until 2014 and served as the leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) on two distinct occasions: firstly from 1990 to 2000, and then again from 2004 to 2014.
John Swinney remarked: “Throughout countless years, Alex broadened the horizons of political life—not only in Scotland but across the entire UK and even further afield.” He continued, “Alex was a tireless advocate for the nation he cherished, relentlessly fighting for her autonomy. He propelled the SNP from the margins into the corridors of power, bringing Scotland tantalizingly close to securing independence.”
“While we have much time to reflect, our immediate thoughts and prayers are with Alex’s family and the multitude of friends he held across the political spectrum,” he added.
Prime Minister of the UK, Keir Starmer, paid homage to Mr. Salmond, recognizing him as a “monumental figure” in political discourse. Starmer stated, “For over three decades, Alex Salmond played an influential role in Scottish and UK politics. His legacy endures long after his departure.” He further noted, “As Scottish First Minister, he possessed a profound love for Scotland’s rich heritage, its culture, and the communities he tirelessly represented in various capacities over the years.”
Starmer also expressed his condolences on behalf of the UK government, extending deep sympathies to Salmond’s family and friends, affirming, “My thoughts are with all who had the pleasure of knowing him.”
Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak referred to Mr. Salmond as a “huge figure in our political landscape.” He expressed his respect through a tribute on social media platform X, stating, “Although our views diverged on constitutional matters, his prowess in debate and his fervent passion for politics were undeniable. May he find peace.”
During his tenure, Salmond played a crucial role in revolutionizing the SNP into a dominant entity in the political sphere. Former First Minister Humza Yousaf acknowledged this influence, commenting that “despite our recent differences, Alex significantly shaped Scottish and UK politics.” He added that Salmond’s transformation of the SNP into a political powerhouse cannot be overlooked.
Anas Sarwar, leader of the Scottish Labour Party, described Salmond as “a central figure in politics for over three decades.” Sarwar stated in his heartfelt message, “The tragic news regarding Alex’s passing will likely shock all who had the privilege of knowing him, whether in Scotland or beyond.” He firmly stated, “Alex’s impact on the Scottish political arena cannot be overstated.”
Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon expressed her astonishment and sorrow upon learning of Salmond’s death. “I cannot simply brush aside the significant events of prior years that led to our diverging paths; that would be disingenuous,” Sturgeon reflected. “However, I must acknowledge that Alex has been an extraordinarily influential figure in my life. He served as my mentor and together we created one of the most successful alliances in the history of UK politics.”
“Under his leadership, the SNP underwent a modern transformation, and he guided us into power for the very first time. As Scotland’s fourth First Minister, he was a pivotal force behind the 2014 referendum that brought Scotland to the threshold of independence,” she noted. “His legacy will forever be revered, and my thoughts are with his widow Moira, their family, and close friends during this difficult time.”
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
