Alex Salmond dies of heart attack at 69 in North Macedonia
Former First Minister of Scotland, Alex Salmond, dies suddenly at 69.
A post-mortem examination has confirmed that Alex Salmond died of a heart attack, according to the Alba Party. The former First Minister of Scotland, who served from 2007 to 2014, passed away suddenly in North Macedonia on Saturday at the age of 69. He had just delivered a speech at the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy Forum in Ohrid and collapsed during lunch in a crowded room.
Efforts are underway by the Scottish government, in collaboration with UK officials, to repatriate his body. Conservative MP David Davis, a friend of the former Scottish National Party (SNP) leader, has urged the RAF to assist in bringing Salmond’s body back to the UK. A condolence book has been opened at the Scottish parliament for visitors to leave messages for his family.
Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney, among others paying tribute over the weekend, praised Salmond for inspiring a generation to believe in independence and acknowledged his significant contributions to public life over many decades. The Salmond family described him as a devoted husband, loyal brother, proud uncle, and trusted friend. They highlighted his dedication to the cause of Scottish independence, calling him a formidable politician, an outstanding orator, and an admired intellect globally.
More details emerge on the death of Alex Salmond as it's revealed he collapsed into the arms of a fellow diner; age just 69 he died at the North Macedonia conference his whit and determined outlook to make Scotland independent made him a formidable character.
RIP Mr Salmond pic.twitter.com/ihqSPegyHt
— Getting Britain Moving (@UkandNireland) October 14, 2024
Buckingham Palace issued a message from the King and Queen expressing their deep sorrow over Salmond’s sudden death. Salmond served as the leader of the SNP from 1990 to 2000 and again from 2004 to 2014. He resigned as First Minister after the 2014 Scottish independence referendum, where 55% of voters opted to remain in the UK.
In 2021, Salmond launched the Alba Party after his relationship with his successor, Nicola Sturgeon, deteriorated. In his later years, Salmond was embroiled in a legal battle with the Scottish government, winning over £500,000 in court after it was found that an investigation into harassment complaints against him was biased. He announced further legal action in November 2023, warning of a “day of reckoning” for the Scottish government and naming former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and ex-permanent secretary Leslie Evans in the case, accusing them of “misfeasance.”
Following his death, Alba’s acting leader Kenny MacAskill stated that it would be up to Salmond’s family to decide whether to continue the legal proceedings against the Scottish government.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Scotland mourns the loss of former First Minister Alex Salmond, a pivotal figure in Scottish politics, who dedicated his life to advocating for independence and transforming the SNP into a leading force.(read more)
- The Standard reports on Alex Salmond’s sudden death in North Macedonia, highlighting his legacy, tributes from Nicola Sturgeon, and the future of the Alba Party amidst his passing.(read more)
- AP News reports Alex Salmond’s body to be repatriated to Scotland after a heart attack in North Macedonia, highlighting his legacy in the Scottish independence movement.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What was the cause of Alex Salmond’s death?
Alex Salmond died of a heart attack.
Where did Alex Salmond pass away?
Alex Salmond passed away in North Macedonia.
How is the repatriation of Alex Salmond’s body being handled?
The Scottish government and UK officials are working to repatriate his body.
How did Alex Salmond contribute to Scotland?
He inspired a generation to believe in independence and contributed significantly to public life.
What was Alex Salmond’s relationship with Nicola Sturgeon like?
Their relationship deteriorated, leading him to launch the Alba Party in 2021.
