FORMER First Minister Alex Salmond has died at the age of 69.
The Alba leader passed away after delivering a speech in North Macedonia.
It’s understood he collapsed after taking ill.
His successor as first minister, and one-time close ally, Nicola Sturgeon said she was “shocked and sorry” to learn of his death.
On X, formerly known as Twitter, she wrote: “Obviously, I cannot pretend that the events of the past few years which led to the breakdown of our relationship did not happen, and it would not be right for me to try.
“However, it remains the fact that for many years Alex was an incredibly significant figure in my life. He was my mentor, and for more than a decade we formed one of the most successful partnerships in UK politics.”
Her statement in full can be read here.
Tributes have flooded in from across the political spectrum, including the Prime Minister and current First Minister and former SNP colleague, John Swinney.
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said: “The sad news of Alex Salmond’s passing today will come as a shock to all who knew him in Scotland, across the U.K and beyond.
“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time and on behalf of Scottish Labour I offer our sincere condolences to all who will be mourning his loss.
“Alex was a central figure in politics for over three decades and his contribution to the Scottish political landscape can not be overstated.
“It is right that we recognise Alex’s service to our country as First Minister and to the communities he represented as both MP and MSP.”
Former SNP MP Joanna Cherry added: “I am devastated to hear that Alex Salmond has died. He was one of the most talented politicians of his generation, and, by any measure, the finest First Minister our country has had. He changed the face of Scottish politics.
“I shall remember him as an inspiration and a loyal friend. My heartfelt condolences go to Moira, his family, and all who loved him.”
Former First Minister Humza Yousaf wrote: “Alex and I obviously had our differences in the last few years, but there’s no doubt about the enormous contribution he made to Scottish and UK politics.
“As well as helping to transform the SNP into the dominant political force it is today. My condolences to his family and friends.”
Mr Salmond was First Minister of Scotland between 2007 and 2014.
He resigned after failing in his bid to persuade Scots to vote for independence in a referendum in 2014.
He returned to Westminster as MP for Gordon between 2015 and 2017.
Mr Salmond resigned from the SNP in August 2018 after allegations of sexual offences.
During a criminal trial in 2020 he was cleared of 14 sexual assault charges.
Mr Salmond announced he was stepping down the day after Yes lost.
He recalled: “I wasn’t under any pressure to resign but by taking responsibility it cleared the field for the SNP. Those who lost the referendum emerged very quickly as the political winners.”
More to follow…
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