The legacy of Alex Salmond

Colleagues, Fellow Scots, Friends from near and far,

We gather today not only to mourn the loss of a political giant but to celebrate the life and legacy of Alex Salmond—Scotland’s most extraordinary First Minister.

Alex was not just a leader; he was a unifying force, awakening the political consciousness of our nation and inspiring us to dream bigger for ourselves and for Scotland.

To Alex’s beloved wife, Moira, his family—Margaret, Gail, Bob, and all who knew him closely—the thoughts and sincere condolences of all in the Alba Party are with you.

I hope the tributes pouring in from across Scotland and beyond offer some comfort during this difficult time. We stand beside you in your grief, just as Alex stood beside Scotland in every battle, every challenge, and every triumph.

Alex did not just help shape this institution; he forged its very identity. Under his leadership, the Scottish Parliament transformed from an assembly into a Parliament.

Alex’s energy, passion, and political will were unparalleled.

He loved this country with a pride that radiated from his very being.

Even his critics could not deny the force of his conviction.

When, against all odds, he led the SNP to a historic majority in 2011, it was not just a victory for a party; it was a mandate for an idea—that the people of Scotland should decide our nation’s future.

The 2014 independence referendum, spearheaded by Alex, saw 84% of Scots turn out to have their voices heard. While the result was not what many of us had hoped, the campaign ignited a democratic fire that has not been extinguished.

Alex Salmond’s political life was dedicated to a profound cause: the belief in Scotland’s right to choose our own path.

Through tireless effort, he took the Scottish National Party from the fringes of politics to the pinnacle of government, making it the dominant force in Scotland.

His vision gave this nation the confidence it had long been denied, and his accomplishments in office speak for themselves—including:

Abolishing bridge tolls and prescription charges,

eliminating university tuition fees,

hosting the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and harnessing Scotland’s green energy potential to position Scotland to take full advantage of the “renewable revolution.”

Ambition in devolved policies was a statement of competence and confidence in what Scotland could achieve through fairness, compassion, and independence.

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

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

His presence on the world stage brought our cause to the attention of leaders across Europe and beyond, and his articulate vision for a fairer, more prosperous Scotland inspired generations.

Alex showed us that the path to a better Scotland begins with self-belief. He spread that message far and wide, ensuring that the seeds of ambition were sown in every corner of our land – that Scotland could stand tall, shoulder to shoulder with other nations, proud and independent.

His resilience and confidence weren’t just admirable; they were contagious—a source of inspiration that ignited a fire, encouraging us to aim higher and believe in a better tomorrow.

He could dismantle an argument with a single quip or rally a movement with a stirring call to arms, his oratory skills leaving both colleagues and adversaries in his shadow.

His voice, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to justice reassured us all—even in the most challenging times.

He leaves behind a forever-changed Scotland—more confident, assertive, and determined to control its destiny.

Alex once said, “The real guardians of progress are not the politicians of Westminster, or even at Holyrood, but the energised activism of tens of thousands of people who I predict will refuse meekly to go back into the political shadow.”

The people of Scotland will honour Alex Salmond’s memory by carrying forward his vision as we continue the fight for a better Scotland—with the confidence and ambition to become a normal independent nation.

Let Alex Salmond be remembered as the First Minister who made the political weather—a leader who inspired ambition by building bridges, not walls.

Scotland’s greatest First Minister may no longer be with us, but his spirit, wisdom, and legacy will guide us forward.

Alex, like too many of those giants on whose shoulders we now stand – may not see the destination of their dream for Scotland – yet one thing is clear – his place on Scotland’s journey is indelibly forged – through determined work and unwavering passion to prevail.