Tributes have been pouring in following the sudden death of former First Minister Alex Salmond. Mr Salmond is understood to have passed away suddenly today after making a speech in North Macedonia.
Politicians and commentators from across the political spectrum have been paying tribute to the impact that he made on Scotland. He was the leader of the SNP for many years and was First Minister at the time of the referendum. He stepped down after the result to be replaced by Nicola Sturgeon.
First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney paid tribute to the former SNP leader and FM, saying: “Alex worked tirelessly and fought fearlessly for the country that he loved and for her Independence. He took the Scottish National Party from the fringes of Scottish politics into Government and led Scotland so close to becoming an Independent country.”
The SNP released a statement: “Alex Salmond, former leader of the SNP and First Minister of Scotland, has died. His leadership brought the SNP into the mainstream and the Scottish Government. He was a titan of the independence movement. Our thoughts are with Moira and his family.”
Journalist and broadcaster Lesley Riddoch commented: “This is terrible, shocking news. Without Alex Salmond Scots would not have had the taste of independence or developed the wind industry that Tories blindly vetoed down south. Alex Salmond was hugely important to Scotland. Commiserations to his family and all in Alba.”
Academic Gerry Hassan said “Alex Salmond has died suddenly at the age of 69 in North Macedonia. Agree or disagree with them, respect or disrespect him, no can doubt that he was a titan of Scottish politics who remade the SNP & independence & made a massive contribution to public life.”
Musician Pat Kane added: “Where were you when… condolences to Alex’s family and friends. A key figure in my own journey to Scottish independence. Abrasive, often brilliant and brave, in pursuit of The Cause. Really, the end of an era.”
Former UK Conservative Prime Minister Rishi Sunak commented: “Alex Salmond was a huge figure in our politics. While I disagreed with him on the constitutional question, there was no denying his skill in debate or his passion for politics. May he rest in peace.”
Scottish Labour Leader Anas Sarwar added: “Alex was a central figure in politics for over three decades and his contribution to the Scottish political landscape can’t be overstated.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “For more than 30 years, Alex Salmond was a monumental figure of Scottish and UK politics. He leaves behind a lasting legacy. My thoughts are with those who knew him, his family, and his loved ones. On behalf of the UK government I offer them our condolences today.”
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