Alex Salmond launched his General Election manifesto (Image: PA)

Former SNP leader Alex Salmond dies aged 69 after speech in Macedonia

The former SNP leader Alex Salmond, who was the First Minister of Scotland between 2007 and 2014, has died at the age of 69, a spokesman for his Alba party said

by · Birmingham Live

Alex Salmond, a pivotal figure in the history of the Scottish National Party (SNP), has died at 69. The influential politician and former First Minister, who led the SNP from 2007 to 2014, died following a speech in Macedonia on Saturday.

A spokesperson for Alba, the pro-independence party he founded after his departure from the SNP, confirmed his passing. Salmond is hailed as a major influence on Scottish political history, having initially steered the SNP from the margins towards governmental power at Holyrood, ultimately stepping down in 2000.

Returning as SNP leader in 2004, Salmond's second leadership saw his party take charge in the Scottish Government in 2007. He enjoyed considerable success at the helm, culminating in a sweeping victory at the 2011 Holyrood elections and the subsequent staging of the independence referendum, reports the Daily Record.

Although independence was not achieved, leading to his resignation in 2014, Salmond remained a significant political presence. His final years were overshadowed by disputes with his one-time protégé Nicola Sturgeon, leading to his exit from the SNP and his establishment of Alba.

Salmond leaves behind his wife Moira. Responding to the news, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar stated: "The sad news of Alex Salmond's passing today will come as a shock to all who knew him in Scotland, across the U.K. and beyond."

"Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time and on behalf of Scottish Labour I offer our sincere condolences to all who will be mourning his loss."

"Alex was a central figure in politics for over three decades and his contribution to the Scottish political landscape can not be overstated."

"It is right that we recognise Alex's service to our country as First Minister and to the communities he represented as both MP and MSP."