Rutherglen politicians have paid tribute to former First Minister Alex Salmond.

The former MP and MSP died suddenly on Saturday at the age of 69.

The Alba party leader became ill while attending an international conference in North Macedonia.

Local media reports said Mr Salmond collapsed during a lunch and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Alba party believe the cause of death to be a heart attack, according to the Press Association news agency.

Rutherglen MP Michael Shanks called Mr Salmond “one of the most consequential politicians of my lifetime”.

The Labour politician added on X: “Alex Salmond was one of the most consequential politicians of my lifetime – his impact went far beyond Scottish politics.

“When we shared an Any Questions panel a few weeks back he was, as always, the centre of the room – convivial, engaged, determined. Thoughts with his family.”

The town’s MSP, Clare Haughey, of the SNP, told Lanarkshire Live: “I was sincerely sorry to hear of Alex’s passing.

“Irrespective of your views on him or his politics, there can be no doubt of his ambition and political acumen.

“He undoubtedly had a huge impact on public life in Scotland, and an indefatigable dedication to our country and its people, and to the cause of independence.

“My thoughts are with his family and friends during this sad time.”

Jim Eadie, who stood as the Alba party’s candidate in Rutherglen at the 2024 general election, said: “Alex was colossal; the most significant Scottish political figure of the devolved era.

“Key along with Dewar and Wallace, he was instrumental in delivering the reconvened Scottish Parliament. The first leader to take the SNP into government, the only leader of any party to achieve an overall majority and the only leader to deliver an Independence Referendum where he took the cause of Scottish Independence to the brink of victory.

“History will judge him generously and kindly for his many political achievements and the difference he made to the lives of the people.

“I will remember him personally for his generosity of spirit which he extended to me and so many others.

“A good man who I will remember fondly forever. Deepest condolences to Moira and all the family.”

Councillor Andrea Cowan, who represents Rutherglen Central & North, added: “I wish to extent my condolences to Alex Salmond’s family and loved ones at this sad time.

“Alex spent his lifetime dedicated to public service, the cause of independence and the people of Scotland.

“He was a formidable politician and his impact on Scottish politics leaves a lasting legacy which will be acknowledged for years to come.”

The Rutherglen Constituency Labour Party tweeted: “We send our most sincere condolences to Alex Salmond’s loved ones on his passing.

“A skilled politician and orator, Alex was a giant of Scottish politics. This is a huge loss.”

*Don’t miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.

And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Posts


This will close in 0 seconds