Former Scottish Prime Minister Alex Salmond has died aged 69.

Mr Salmond, who led the Scottish Nationalist Party between 1990 and 2000 and again between 2004 and 2014, was a prominent figure in the country’s nationalist movement.

The second time, he used his mandate as First Minister to hold a referendum on Scottish independence in 2014.

The Yes Scotland campaign was rejected and he subsequently resigned.

At the time of his death, he had been the leader of the nationalist Alba party since 2021.

Reports from Scotland said he collapsed after giving a speech in North Macedonia this morning.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Mr Salmond “leaves a lasting legacy” and was “a monumental figure in Scottish and British politics”.

“As First Minister of Scotland, he cared deeply about the heritage, history and culture of Scotland and the communities he represented as an MP and MSP over many years,” the Prime Minister said.

Former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also paid tribute to the event.

In a post on the social media platform Rest in Peace.

Scottish Labor leader Anas Sarwar wrote in a statement: “The sad news of Alex Salmond’s death today will come as a shock to everyone who knew him in Scotland, the UK and beyond.”

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time and on behalf of Scottish Labor I extend our sincerest condolences to all who will mourn his loss.”

“Alex has been a central figure in politics for over three decades and his contribution to the Scottish political landscape cannot be overstated.”

“It is right that we recognize Alex’s service to our country as First Minister and to the communities he represented both as an MP and as an MSP.”

“A huge figure”

Douglas Ross, former leader of the Scottish Conservatives, wrote on X that Mr Salmond had had a “huge influence” across Scotland.

He added: “Although we had opposing political views, he was a prominent figure in Scottish politics, which he dominated for many years.”

“My thoughts are with Moira, his family and friends at this difficult time.”

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