Statement by Alba Party depute leader Kenny MacAskill on the death of Alex Salmond

Statement by Alba Party depute leader Kenny MacAskill on the death of Alex Salmond

“He was the outstanding Scottish politician not just of his generation but for generations far before. Recognised at home and respected abroad. He was not just a master political tactician but strategist. Yet also a politician who was a superb debater and orator. But one who equally possessed extraordinary charm and a common touch which endeared him to so many in Scotland.

His record speaks for itself in moulding the modern SNP,  forming the first independence administration and delivering both an unprecedented Holyrood majority and a Referendum on independence. His legacy lives on and has benefitted Scotland immensely with infrastructure and other social and economic gains testifying to that. 

The actions of individuals and later administrations undoubtedly took their toll upon him. Courts will still rightly decide upon the actions of individuals whose behaviour towards him was deplorable and shameful.

But he had yet again risen to the challenges he had faced. Forging a media career and establishing the Alba Party, laying the groundwork for ensuring independence remained on the agenda and that a route to achieve it could once again be found.

The Party grieves the loss of their founder and Leader. Our thoughts are with Moira and his family. 

But the dream he cherished so closely and came so close to delivering will never die.“