Alex Salmond, notable as the two-time leader of the Scottish National Party and a driving force behind Scotland's push for independence, has died at the age of 69. His death was confirmed by Anas Sarwar, the leader of Scotland's Labour Party, through a social media statement, with reports indicating that Salmond passed away following a speech in North Macedonia.
Salmond's leadership saw the Scottish National Party evolve from a small faction to a key player in British politics, securing a majority in the Scottish Parliament in 2011. His tenure included spearheading the 2014 independence referendum, after which he resigned when the vote confirmed Scotland's decision to remain part of the United Kingdom.
Anas Sarwar commented on Salmond's impactful legacy, recognizing him as a major influence in Scottish politics over more than thirty years. "The news of Alex Salmond’s passing is a profound shock to everyone familiar with his work in Scotland, the UK, and internationally," Sarwar remarked. Efforts are underway to gather more details on this evolving story. Megan Specia, based in London, contributed to this report, focusing on British, Irish, and European issues.
Salmond's leadership saw the Scottish National Party evolve from a small faction to a key player in British politics, securing a majority in the Scottish Parliament in 2011. His tenure included spearheading the 2014 independence referendum, after which he resigned when the vote confirmed Scotland's decision to remain part of the United Kingdom.
Anas Sarwar commented on Salmond's impactful legacy, recognizing him as a major influence in Scottish politics over more than thirty years. "The news of Alex Salmond’s passing is a profound shock to everyone familiar with his work in Scotland, the UK, and internationally," Sarwar remarked. Efforts are underway to gather more details on this evolving story. Megan Specia, based in London, contributed to this report, focusing on British, Irish, and European issues.