Private Citizen Funds Repatriation of Alex Salmond’s Body After RAF Request Denied

Alex Salmond's remains to be transported back to Scotland – a private citizen covers the cost of the flight following denial of RAF assistance

Scotland's ex-first minister passed away last Saturday at 69 while visiting Ohrid, North Macedonia. Several UK MPs had advocated for the Royal Air Force to assist in returning his body.

Scotland correspondent @ConnorGillies

Wednesday, October 16, 2024, 2:

A private citizen is funding the transportation of Alex Salmond's remains back home following the Foreign Office's decision to deny requests for Royal Air Force assistance.

The previous leader of the SNP and former first minister passed away suddenly after giving a talk on Scottish independence in North Macedonia last Saturday.

Discussions had been ongoing between the UK and Scottish administrations concerning the repatriation of Mr. Salmond's remains.

David Davis, a Conservative MP and confidant of Mr. Salmond, spearheaded demands for military intervention.

A private citizen has arranged for the rental of a private plane, which is scheduled to touch down in Aberdeen.

Authorities are finalizing the logistical details on Wednesday afternoon.

Kenny MacAskill, the interim head of the Alba Party, expressed that Mr. Salmond's widow and relatives deeply appreciate the support they have received.

He mentioned: "Moira and the rest of the family find considerable solace in the fact that he will be returning home to them soon."

Mr. MacAskill conveyed the Salmond family's gratitude towards the government of North Macedonia for hastening the release of Mr. Salmond’s remains, and to both the Scottish and UK governments for their efforts in facilitating his repatriation.

Extended talks took place between Kate Forbes, the Deputy First Minister of Scotland, and the UK government's minister for Europe.

There were worries about deviating from the tradition where only the remains of Royal Family members are transported by the RAF.

According to those present, Mr. Salmond, a staunch nationalist, collapsed into the embrace of a coworker after a Cultural Diplomacy summit luncheon in Ohrid this past Saturday.

The family of the 69-year-old announced that he passed away due to a heart attack, according to a statement released on Monday evening.

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The monarch paid tribute to Mr. Salmond, who guided Scotland to the verge of independence during the landmark 2014 referendum.

In a statement released by Buckingham Palace, the King expressed that both he and the Queen were deeply saddened by the news of Mr. Salmond's unexpected passing.

A condolence book is now available at the Scottish Parliament for guests to pen messages for Mr. Salmond's family.

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For further reading: Exploring the influential legacy of Alex Salmond. The quest for a fresh face in Scottish independence. Scottish Parliament opens a book of condolence.

Mr. Salmond held the position of Scotland's First Minister from 2007 until 2014 and led the Scottish National Party (SNP) during two separate terms, first from 1990 to 2000 and again from 200

In 2021, following a fallout with his successor Nicola Sturgeon, he established his competing Scottish independence party, Alba.

The two never exchanged words after that.

A spokesperson for the Scottish government stated: "The death of a family member is always a challenging period, and this is further complicated if it occurs abroad.

In recent days, both the Scottish government and the UK government have been in close contact with the family of Alex Salmond. They have cooperated to facilitate the prompt and respectful return of the former first minister to Scotland, adhering to the family's preferences.

After considering various alternatives, the family has arranged for it to happen with the help of a private individual.

"The government of Scotland remains in communication with Mr. Salmond's relatives and is prepared to provide additional guidance and assistance if needed."

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