Chamber UK joins the many voices across Scotland and the wider United Kingdom in paying tribute to Alex Salmond, who tragically passed away on Saturday aged 69, shortly after delivering a speech in North Macedonia. A towering figure in Scottish and UK politics, Salmond’s influence spanned more than three decades, during which time he left a big mark on the political landscape.
Salmond’s commitment to Scottish independence and his contributions to public life are widely recognised across the political spectrum. As a key leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP), he was instrumental in reshaping the party and driving forward the campaign for independence, an issue that has dominated Scottish political discourse for decades.
John Swinney, who served as finance secretary under Salmond during his time as First Minister, highlighted his profound impact.
“He inspired a generation of people to believe in Scottish independence, and that generation is still believing in Scottish independence and still wants Scottish independence. Alex left a fundamental footprint on Scottish politics on that significant issue.”
First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney
After stepping down as SNP leader in 2014, Salmond’s passion for Scottish independence did not wane. In 2021, he founded the Alba Party, a pro-independence party aimed at broadening the political representation of those supporting Scottish self-determination. While the party has not yet achieved the electoral success of the SNP, Salmond’s move to launch Alba reaffirmed his deep commitment to the independence movement and his willingness to explore new political avenues to achieve this goal.
“For more than 30 years, Alex Salmond was a monumental figure of Scottish and UK politics. He leaves behind a lasting legacy. As First Minister of Scotland, he cared deeply about Scotland’s heritage, history, and culture, as well as the communities he represented as MP and MSP over many years of service. Throughout his career, Alex Salmond demonstrated not only a remarkable political acumen but also a passion for Scotland’s cultural and historical identity. His leadership in securing the 2014 Scottish Independence Referendum, although not resulting in the outcome he sought, was a watershed moment in UK politics.”
Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer
“While I disagreed with him on the constitutional question, there was no denying his skill in debate or his passion for politics.”
Leader of the Conservative Party, Rishi Sunak
Nicola Sturgeon, who served as Salmond’s deputy from 2007 to 2014 and succeeded him as First Minister, offered a personal reflection on her long-standing relationship with him.
“For many years, Alex was an incredibly significant figure in my life. He was my mentor and for more than a decade we formed one of the most successful partnerships in UK politics.”
Former First Minister of Scotland and Leader of the SNP, Nicola Sturgeon.
Alex Salmond’s political career saw many triumphs. He led the SNP to its first-ever victory in a Scottish Parliament election in 2007, a victory that would later be repeated with even greater success in 2011, when the SNP won an unprecedented majority. His ability to connect with voters, shape political debate, and push forward the cause of Scottish self-determination made him a pivotal force in modern Scottish history.
As tributes pour in from across the political spectrum, Alex Salmond will be remembered as a leader who inspired hope, stirred debate, and championed Scotland’s right to self-determination. His contribution to public life and to Scotland’s political history will not be forgotten.
At Chamber UK, we extend our condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues at this difficult time.
