Alex Salmond dies of heart attack at North Macedonia conference
Salmond collapses during speech, local authorities confirm immediate death
Former SNP leader and Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond passed away instantly from a suspected heart attack at a conference in North Macedonia, colleagues reported. During a speech at the Ohrid Cultural Diplomacy Forum, Salmond, aged 69, collapsed around 3:30 pm on Saturday. Witness Mark Donfried, who was present, described the moment as surreal, stating that Salmond fell backward into the arms of another speaker.
Donfried recounted, “He was sitting across from me at lunchtime when he suddenly collapsed. I immediately went to get an ambulance. By the time I returned, CPR was being administered. Fortunately, he didn’t suffer any pain.” Eyewitnesses noted Salmond was in high spirits before his sudden collapse. He was attending the event with former MP Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh, chairman of the Alba Party.
Local authorities confirmed Salmond’s immediate death, pending official confirmation from an autopsy. Despite paramedic efforts, Salmond could not be revived. Efforts were made to inform Salmond’s wife, Moira, 87, of his sudden death before the news became public. Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum, including from former Prime Minister David Cameron, who interacted with Salmond during the 2014 independence referendum.
Former Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond has died at 69.
Reports from Scotland indicate that he collapsed after delivering a speech in North Macedonia earlier today.
Trisha Goddard: “He was larger than life, very warm and loved a bit of banter.” pic.twitter.com/Qiw7peAx6T
— Talk (@TalkTV) October 12, 2024
Donfried, director of the Academy for Cultural Diplomacy, expressed the shock felt at the conference, saying, “He was in excellent spirits and health. His sudden collapse has left everyone here in shock.” A statement of condolence is anticipated in the Scottish Parliament following the October recess. Tributes continued to arrive from friends, colleagues, and political opponents, highlighting the impact of Salmond’s passing on British politics.
King Charles expressed his sorrow, acknowledging Salmond’s dedication to Scotland. “My wife and I are greatly saddened by Alex Salmond’s sudden death. His commitment to Scotland defined his public service. Our condolences go to his family and loved ones,” he said.
Lord Cameron of Chipping Norton, who signed the ‘Edinburgh Agreement’ with Salmond, also paid tribute. “We often disagreed, but Alex Salmond was a significant figure in Scottish and British politics. His charisma and conviction were unmatched. He will be missed,” Cameron remarked.
First Minister John Swinney acknowledged Salmond’s profound influence on Scottish politics while noting the difficult years following harassment complaints against him. Salmond successfully challenged the Scottish Government’s investigation into harassment complaints and was acquitted in a criminal trial. These events strained his relationship with Nicola Sturgeon.
Swinney stated, “Despite recent difficulties, we must recognise Alex Salmond’s formidable contribution.” Sturgeon, in her statement, highlighted their successful political partnership while acknowledging their relationship’s breakdown.
Brian Cox, a prominent independence supporter, reflected on Salmond’s legacy. “He was entertaining, humane, and one of the greatest political thinkers Scotland and possibly these islands have produced,” Cox said. He credited Salmond with influencing his political shift from Labour to the SNP.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Sky News reports on the sudden death of Alex Salmond, Scotland’s former First Minister, who suffered a suspected heart attack while delivering a speech in North Macedonia, garnering tributes from politicians.(read more)
- The Telegraph reports Alex Salmond’s last public video before his death, where he criticized the EU for secretly conspiring against Scottish independence. He made these remarks at a conference in North Macedonia.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
How did Alex Salmond die?
Alex Salmond passed away from a suspected heart attack during a conference in North Macedonia.
What was Alex Salmond doing when he collapsed?
He was giving a speech at the Ohrid Cultural Diplomacy Forum.
Who was with Alex Salmond at the conference?
He was attending with former MP Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh.
What was the reaction to Alex Salmond’s death?
Tributes poured in from political figures, including King Charles, David Cameron, and First Minister John Swinney.
What did Brian Cox say about Alex Salmond?
Brian Cox called him one of the greatest political thinkers and credited him for his shift from Labour to SNP.
