Scotland Mourns the Loss of Alex Salmond: A Formidable Politician Remembered for His Vision and Dedication to Independence

Alex Salmond passes away: Relatives honor the 'powerful political figure' who 'inspired hope for improvement'

It is thought that Mr. Salmond experienced a heart attack following a speech in North Macedonia.

Sunday, October 13, 2024, 8:

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The family of Alex Salmond has expressed that the former leader made a profound impact on the political landscape of Scotland, emphasizing that his absence will deeply alter their lives.

Alex Salmond, the former leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP), passed away at the age of 69 on Saturday afternoon. His death, which occurred while he was visiting North Macedonia, is believed to have been caused by a heart attack. Salmond was at the helm of the SNP from 1990 to

In a statement issued on Sunday evening, his family described him as "a formidable politician, a remarkable speaker, a brilliant intellect, and respected globally."

"He was passionate about engaging with others and listening to their experiences, extending remarkable compassion to those in need," the statement read.

He committed his entire adult life to the cause he was passionate about – securing Scottish independence.

During our family's most challenging times, he was the pillar who held us together. Now, his absence makes these moments even harder, as we can no longer lean on his endless resilience and unwavering optimism.

"Alex inspired us to hope for more. Life won't be the same without him."

"He would have wished for us to carry on with his lifelong mission for autonomy and fairness, and that is exactly what we intend to do."

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Speaking on "Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips," Scotland's First Minister John Swinney praised the ex-leader of Scotland for his tremendous impact on the country's political scene. He noted that the former leader transformed the SNP from a marginal party into Scotland's governing body and nearly achieved independence for the nation in the 2014 referendum.

When asked about the reasons behind Mr. Salmond's success, the leader of the SNP responded, "He possessed a resolute determination to achieve his political goals."

"People were united with the goal of achieving political success, creating a core of intense motivation and effort."

"Another key aspect was his ability to see the big picture strategically, crucial for understanding the transition from one scenario to the next and the development through those strategic choices."

Mr. Swinney described Mr. Salmond as an immensely crucial and impactful leader in both Scottish and UK political spheres.

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Buckingham Palace released a statement in which the King expressed that he and the Queen were deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of Mr. Salmond.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds expressed to Trevor Phillips that Mr. Salmond is a significant presence in both Scottish and UK politics, describing him as a powerful advocate whose opposition is formidable for anyone supporting unionism.

Learn more: The impact of Salmond's passing echoes throughout UK political circles

Obituary: Remembering Alex Salmond, a colossus in the political arena

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Shadow work and pensions secretary Mel Stride characterized Mr. Salmond as a pleasant individual to converse with and spend time around.

He described the ex-leader from Scotland as "a very influential politician" and noted, "Although I completely oppose his viewpoints, the issues he tackled were indeed substantial."

Ex-UK Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair commented: "Despite our differences, he was a significant presence in both Scottish and UK political arenas, undoubtedly committed to Scotland and its citizens."

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Scottish performer Brian Cox, known for his role in the drama series Succession, hailed Mr. Salmond as "one of the most brilliant political minds" to emerge from the British Isles.

He stated that Mr. Salmond advocated for Scottish independence with profound compassion and insight.

In Ohrid, North Macedonia, a commemorative ceremony was conducted for Mr. Salmond, with President Gordana Siljanovska Davkova in attendance.

The ex-premier was visiting the nation to participate and deliver a speech at the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy Forum. It is reported that he fell ill and collapsed during a lunch in a packed room following his address.

Mark Donfried, who leads the Academy for Cultural Diplomacy, was present at the conference and noted that Mr. Salmond appeared to be in excellent spirits throughout the dinner.

"Out of nowhere, he collapsed and ended up in the arms of my colleague who was sitting across the table," he explained.

"Right away, I jumped up and hurried to phone for an ambulance, and by the time I returned, he was lying on the ground."

"Everyone is totally taken aback – it's the whole hotel, the entire conference."

Mr. Salmond held the position of Scotland's first minister between 2007 and 2014, and he led the Scottish National Party (SNP) during two separate periods, first from 1990 to 2000 and again from

He stepped down from his position as first minister following the 2014 Scottish independence referendum, in which 55% voted against independence, opting to remain part of the UK.

In 2021, following a rift with his successor Nicola Sturgeon, he established Alba, his new party advocating for Scottish independence.

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