OBITUARY : Alex Salmond (1954-2024)
OBITUARY
Alexander Elliot Anderson Salmond, the former First Minister of Scotland and a towering figure in the fight for Scottish independence, has died at the age of 69. His passing marks the end of an era in Scottish politics, where his charisma, intellect, and unwavering belief in his country left an indelible mark.
Born in Linlithgow on Hogmanay 1954, Salmond’s journey from a small-town boy to a political titan is a testament to his ambition and political acumen. Educated at Linlithgow Academy and the University of St Andrews, where he studied economics and medieval history, Salmond joined the Scottish National Party (SNP) in 1973, a decision that would shape his life and the future of Scotland.
His early career saw him working as an economist for the Royal Bank of Scotland and the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries for Scotland. However, his passion lay in politics, and in 1987, he was elected to the UK Parliament as the MP for Banff and Buchan. From the outset, he was a formidable presence in Westminster, known for his sharp wit, debating skills, and unwavering commitment to Scottish self-determination.
Salmond’s leadership qualities were quickly recognised, and in 1990, he became leader of the SNP, a position he held for a decade. During this time, he revitalised the party, transforming it into a major political force and setting the stage for its eventual rise to power. He spearheaded the campaign for a Scottish Parliament, culminating in the successful 1997 devolution referendum.
In 2007, Salmond led the SNP to victory in the Scottish Parliament elections, becoming Scotland’s first First Minister from the SNP. His tenure was marked by significant achievements, including the introduction of free university tuition, the abolition of prescription charges, and the successful negotiation of increased powers for the Scottish Parliament.
However, it was his unwavering pursuit of Scottish independence that defined his political legacy. He spearheaded the campaign for the 2014 independence referendum, galvanising support for the “Yes” campaign and bringing the issue to the forefront of Scottish politics. Though the referendum ultimately resulted in a “No” vote, it energised the independence movement and laid the groundwork for future campaigns.
Salmond’s political career was not without controversy. He faced accusations of sexual harassment, which he denied and was acquitted of in court. These allegations, however, tarnished his reputation and led to his resignation from the SNP in 2018. He subsequently formed the Alba Party, which campaigned for Scottish independence on a platform of a “super-majority” of pro-independence MSPs in the Scottish Parliament.
Beyond his political achievements, Salmond was a complex and charismatic figure. He was known for his love of horse racing, golf, and good whisky. He was a gifted communicator, capable of captivating audiences with his wit and storytelling. He was also a fierce debater, relishing the cut and thrust of political argument.
Alex Salmond’s impact on Scottish politics is undeniable. He was a transformative figure who reshaped the political landscape and brought the dream of Scottish independence closer to reality. He inspired a generation of Scottish nationalists and left a lasting legacy that will be debated and discussed for years to come.
His passing will be mourned by many, not just in Scotland but across the UK and beyond. He was a political giant, a champion of his country, and a man who left an indelible mark on the history of Scotland. He will be remembered as a skilled politician, a passionate advocate for Scotland, and a complex and captivating figure who played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s future.
