Alex Salmond - a post mortem retrospective

By Shannon Walker

Half Mast Scottish Flag. Photographed by Andrew Dawes

Former First Minister Alex Salmond, who was deemed one of the most prominent political figures in the last 30 years, died suddenly from a heart attack during a lunchtime conference at age 69. 

His death prompted tributes around the country from both politicians and the public, although there are were mixed opinions from the public regarding his dream of an independent Scotland, which certainly won’t die with him.

Louisa Gavin, from Glasgow, said: “He was trying for independence which I'm all for so in that sense I think he was good.”

Steven Davies, from Motherwell, said: “Alex Salmond had a major impact both in Holyrood and Westminster and was very well respected whilst still being a very divisive figure. While I don't agree with his dream of an independent Scotland, his policies in office were very good for the country.” 

Alex Salmond. By Jeff J Mitchell. Getty Images

Salmond was First Minister from 2007 to 2014 leading the Scottish National Party (SNP) and then served as the leader of the Alba party from 2021 till his death this year. Salmond was a large part of the independence campaign which under his leadership was first proposed to the Scottish government and its people. The campaign is still discussed now with the SNP still proposing another referendum to this day.  

A memorial has been held in North Macedonia where Salmond collapsed, with the public leaving flowers and Alba posters to honour him. First Minister John Swinney was among those paying tribute to Salmond. 

It was reported by the Daily Mail that former First Minister and Salmond's successor Nicola Sturgeon will not attend his funeral due to how the Scottish government treated Salmond during his sexual assault allegations trial. The funeral will be a private event with only Salmond’s family and friends in attendance and will take place on Tuesday 29 October in Aberdeenshire, a public celebration of his life will take place on a later date. 

A petition has been made to rename the Queensferry Crossing to the ‘Alex Salmond Bridge’ as a memorial to him and all his achievements and influence on Scottish infrastructure, already the petition has gained over 2,000 signatures.