Alex Salmond, the former First Minister of Scotland, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 69, sending shockwaves across both Scotland and the world. His death occurred during a conference in Ohrid, North Macedonia, where he reportedly suffered from a suspected heart attack. Following the news, tributes poured in, as both supporters and critics reflected on his impactful political career and legacy. Salmond was not just a significant figure within the Scottish National Party (SNP) but also reshaped the very political fabric of Scotland during his tenure.
The former First Minister's death led to organized events paying tribute to him, including the opening of a book of condolences at the Scottish Parliament. A convoy was planned to allow people to gather and sign this book to honor his memory. Participants were invited to decorate their vehicles with Saltires and images of Salmond before departing from Glasgow to Edinburgh, embodying the outpouring of affection from his supporters.
Reflecting on Salmond's career, it's evident he dramatically changed the direction of Scottish politics between the 1990s and the early 2000s. When he first came onto the scene, the SNP was often dismissed as a marginal party. Yet, under his leadership, Salmond transformed the SNP from its prior isolationist posture focused exclusively on independence to one presenting itself as a credible and socially-democratic alternative to the then-dominant Labour Party. His vision combined the quest for independence with social justice, bringing many Scots who hadn’t previously considered independence to support the cause.
His strategies were notable. He famously collaborated with Labour and the Liberal Democrats during the 1997 devolution referendum, successfully rallying public support which resulted in a remarkable 75% approval for devolution. This collaboration helped to highlight Salmond's pragmatic approach to politics—recognizing the importance of partnership over pure ideological pursuit. It wasn't just about the long-term goal of independence but also ensuring the SNP maintained relevance and trust among the electorate.
While his political career was marked by significant achievements, it was also marred by turmoil and controversy, particularly during the latter part of his political life. The allegations of sexual misconduct against him, which emerged during the #MeToo movement, marked a significant turning point. Despite being acquitted of all criminal charges, the allegations affected perceptions of not only Salmond's character but also the SNP's integrity.
After leaving the SNP, Salmond established the Alba Party with the intent to push for independence but struggled to replicate the same level of support he previously commanded. His new party, instead of reigniting the independence movement, faced significant electoral challenges and failure at the polls.
Despite this, it’s important to note the contrasting perspectives on his legacy. For many, Salmond remains the progressive figure who articulated the aspirations of many Scots, contributing to what they viewed as the modern democratic identity of Scotland. Under his guidance, the SNP embraced more progressive policies and championed social issues, positioning itself as the party of modern Scotland.
On the other hand, his supporters have often expressed dissatisfaction with the current leadership of the SNP, indicating fractures within the party about its direction. Following his death, numerous commentators have warned against romanticizing his legacy as one purely focused on rigid constitutionalism, as some factions within the party seem eager to portray. Instead, there’s caution against using his memory to propagate what some have called "backward-looking" politics. Many argue Salmond would have disapproved of the radical shift to more extreme nationalism and constitutional obsessions reflected by some supporters.
The SNP, during its time of governance, retains significant social-democratic credentials, focusing on universalist policies and social justice, almost as Salmond had envisioned during his political zenith. Observers of Scottish politics note the potential risks of allowing nostalgia for Salmond’s era to overshadow the party’s contemporary achievements.
Joyce McMillan, writing for The Scotsman, emphasized the importance of framing his legacy correctly. She celebrates Salmond’s pivotal role but warns against using his death to relive the splintering and damaging factional disputes within the SNP. These negatives could risk undoing the progressive legacy he crafted during his influential years. He portrayed Scotland not as merely seeking independence but as aspiring for social equity and global relevance.
Within this complex narrative lies the potential for healing and reflection. Salmond's passing can serve as a moment to unite various factions within the SNP and within Scotland more broadly, to recommit to the kind of values he stood for—values of inclusion, social welfare, and shared purpose. Salmond’s politics sought to connect with everyday Scots by prioritizing their welfare along with their aspirations for independence. The undercurrent of Salmond's appeal lay within these intersections, balancing ambitions for autonomy with the realities of governance.
Following the convoy from Glasgow to Edinburgh, echoes of Salmond's decades of influence reverberated through the gatherings of supporters who came together to honor his memory. Each car adorned with tributes, combined with heartfelt messages shared at the Scottish Parliament, illustrated the personal connections individuals had to Salmond's vision for Scotland. This moment of communal grieving was not just a farewell, but also a reminder of what Salmond aimed to achieve through politics, blending local pride with broader aspirations.
While Salmond's death brings closure to one chapter, it undoubtedly opens up discussions about the future of the SNP and Scotland's political direction. His contributions set the stage for today's political discourse, shaping pathways for future leaders. Alex Salmond’s life and legacy may have ended, but the conversations around his impact will continue. It is now up to the SNP and its supporters to decide how they will honor his vision moving forward by fostering the inclusive, social-democratic politics he championed, rather than succumbing to divisive tendencies.
