Former Scottish Prime Minister Alex Salmond, a fervent defender of Scottish independence, has died at the age of 69, members of the Scottish independence party, the SNP, which he led, announced on Saturday.
His career will be notably marked by the 2014 referendum on Scottish independence, a bitter defeat for the yes camp that he led (55% of the votes against).
He subsequently resigned from his position as head of government, which he had held since 2007.
“Alex and I have obviously had our differences over the last few years, but there is no doubt that he has made a huge contribution to Scottish and British politics. My condolences to his family and friends”wrote on X Humza Yousaf, SNP member and former Scottish First Minister.
SNP members did not specify the causes of death.
Reactions poured in on Saturday from across the British political spectrum, in tribute to one of the most important figures in Scotland’s recent history.
The British Prime Minister, Labor Keir Starmer, described Mr Salmond as “monumental figure in Scottish and British politics” Who “leaves behind a lasting legacy”.
His predecessor, the conservative Rishi Sunak, greeted him “a major figure in our politics”. “While I disagree with him on the constitutional issue, I cannot deny his talent for debate and his passion for politics. May he rest in peace”he added.
