(CNN) – Former First Minister of Scotland Alex Salmond has died at the age of 69, according to reports from Scotland’s main political parties and the UK media.
British media reports say Salmond fell ill while in North Macedonia.
“I can never thank Alex enough for all his lessons, advice, guidance, mentorship, love and friendship and all he did for Scotland. He was a father to the nation for many years and he was a father to me for many years. “Our thoughts are with the whole family and all the people of Scotland who are grieving. There are,” said Chris McClenny, general secretary of the Salmond-founded Alpha Party, this Saturday.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “For more than 30 years, Alex Salmond has been a monumental figure in Scottish and UK politics. Leave a lasting legacy. As Scotland’s First Minister, she cared deeply about Scotland’s heritage, history and culture and the communities she represented over many years of service as an MP and MSP. My thoughts are with those who knew him, his family and loved ones. “On behalf of the UK government, I offer you our condolences today.”
Following the defeat of the Scottish independence referendum in September 2014, Salmond resigned as First Minister and leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP). He was replaced by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. He then campaigned for Scottish independence under the newly formed Alpha Party, which he founded in 2021.
After losing his seat in Parliament, Salmond remained a prominent figure in Scottish and British politics, working as a commentator and presenting the Alex Salmond Show on Russian state broadcaster RT.
In 2018, she took the country’s government to court over allegations of sexual misconduct. According to Scotland’s Daily Record, Salmond said the Scottish Government had denied him the opportunity to defend himself against allegations of his behavior towards a staff member at Bute House’s official residence. Salmond was acquitted of all charges by a jury at a trial in March 2020.
“The sad news that Alex Salmond has passed away today will come as a shock to everyone who knew him in Scotland, the UK and beyond. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time and on behalf of the Scottish Labor Party, I offer our deepest condolences to all who will be mourning his loss,” Scottish Labor said. Party leader Anas Sarwar said: “Alex has been a key figure in politics for over three decades and his contribution to the Scottish political landscape cannot be overstated,” he added.
The SNP also republished several Scottish media reports on Salmond’s death on social media.
CNN has contacted the Scottish Government for comment.
