MSPs pay tribute to Alex Salmond in Holyrood

MSPs have paid tribute to former first minister Alex Salmond following his death two weeks ago.

The motion of condolence, tabled by First Minister John Swinney, was brought to the chamber on Wednesday afternoon.

The flags outside of parliament have been flown at half mast to mark the occasion.

Presiding Officer Alison Johnstone introduced the debate, noting the whole parliament was “shocked and saddened” by Salmond’s passing.

She added: “Alex Salmond’s contribution to the development and life of this parliament is an integral part of its history.”

Members of Alba, the party Salmond led from 2021 until his death, were present in the chamber for the speeches.

The first minister praised Salmond – with whom he worked under in government between 2007 and 2014 – as a “man o’ independent mind”, adding he’s left an “indelible mark on Scotland”.

Recognising the pair’s relationship had deteriorated in recent years, Swinney said: “I have to acknowledge that our relationship changed over the last six years. We all know in life that human relationships can change; one moment they are strong, the next they are not. Politics is no difference because politics at all levels is simply about people.

“What cannot be denied by anyone is that Alex Salmond led to Scottish National Party from the fringes of Scottish politics to become the government of Scotland, and to come so close to winning our country’s independence.

“That has changed Scotland and our politics forever. It is now up to those of us who believe that Scotland should be an independent country to make that case and win that future.”

All leaders of the opposition parties also paid their tributes to the former first minister.

Ash Regan, who is Alba’s sole representative in the parliament, praised his “unparalleled” passion and energy, and said he was a “unifying force” that allowed Scotland to consider its future.

She said: “Alex Salmond was a man of intellect and strategy, but above all he was a man of the people. He had that rare ability to make complex issues accessible to everyone, and he took the time to listen to and speak to people all across Scotland.

“Whether he was addressing a crowded village hall or standing before world leaders, he represented Scotland with pride, with dignity, and a wit that often disarmed even his staunchest opponents.”

Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay described Salmond as having a “powerful and commanding presence”, and the ability to both inspire and intimate.

“I didn’t know Alex Salmond the man, but everyone in Scotland knew Alex Salmond the politician. He was a figure whose presence loomed large across my life and our country. Nationalist or Unionist, there was no ignoring him,” he added.

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said Scottish politics “will never be the same without him”, and said he’s led the Yes campaign with “skill, energy and enthusiasm”.

He added: “Scotland is a very difference place due to the political career of Alex Salmond – a controversial but also a charismatic figure. His absence will be felt by many.”

Scottish Greens leader Patrick Harvie said Salmond had “advanced Scotland’s political journey”, while Scottish Lib Dem leader Alex Cole-Hamilton dubbed him a “political pioneer”.

Salmond’s funeral took place on Tuesday in Strichen.

A public memorial service is expected to take place in Edinburgh in the coming weeks.