Former Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond Passes Away at 69

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
12/10/2024 18h03

**Former Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond Dies at 69**

Alex Salmond, former First Minister of Scotland, has passed away at the age of 69, according to statements from Scotland's main political parties and various UK media reports. Salmond reportedly fell ill and collapsed after delivering a speech in North Macedonia, according to British media sources.

Chris McEleny, General Secretary of the Alba Party, deeply mourned Salmond's loss, stating, "I will never be able to thank Alex for all his lessons, advice, guidance, mentorship, love, and friendship and for everything he did for Scotland. For many years he was the father of the nation and for several years he has been a father-like figure to me. All of our thoughts are with all of the family and everyone across Scotland who are in mourning."

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer paid tribute to Salmond's significant impact on Scottish and UK politics, saying, "For more than 30 years, Alex Salmond was a monumental figure of Scottish and UK politics. He leaves behind a lasting legacy. As First Minister of Scotland he cared deeply about Scotland's heritage, history, and culture, as well as the communities he represented as MP and MSP over many years of service. 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."

Alex Salmond stepped down as First Minister and SNP leader following the defeat in the September 2014 Scottish independence referendum, which he staunchly supported. Nicola Sturgeon succeeded him. Salmond later continued his advocacy for Scotland's independence through the Alba Party, which he founded in 2021.

Even after losing his parliamentary seat, Salmond remained a prominent figure in politics, working as a commentator and hosting the Alex Salmond Show on Russian state broadcaster RT. In 2018, Salmond faced accusations of sexual misconduct but was cleared of all charges by a jury in March 2020.

Anas Sarwar, the leader of the Scottish Labour Party, also expressed his sorrow, noting, "The sad news of Alex Salmond's passing today will come as a shock to all who knew him in Scotland, across the UK 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 cannot be overstated."

The Scottish National Party (SNP) acknowledged Salmond's death by reposting multiple Scottish media reports on social media. CNN has reached out to the Scottish government for further comments.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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