Summary
Alex Salmond, the former First Minister of Scotland, faced several sexual misconduct allegations that significantly impacted his political career. In 2020, he was acquitted of 12 charges related to sexual misconduct, while one charge of sexual assault with intent to rape was deemed “not proven.” Despite his acquittal, the allegations and the surrounding controversy damaged his reputation and led to a protracted legal battle with the Scottish government.
The allegations against Salmond surfaced in 2018 when the Scottish National Party (SNP) government initiated an inquiry into claims that he had harassed two civil servants in 2013. Following his resignation from the SNP, Salmond contested the inquiry’s legality, arguing that it was politically motivated. The court ultimately ruled that the inquiry was unlawful, but additional allegations emerged, leading to a criminal trial in March 2020. During the trial, Salmond’s defense characterized him as “touchy-feely” but maintained that the charges were exaggerated or fabricated. The jury acquitted him on most counts, but the damage to his political standing was profound, leading to his establishment of a new political party, Alba, which struggled to gain traction in subsequent elections.
Alex Salmond: charismatic politician who nearly broke up the Union
Oct. 19 / The Week / Offers a comprehensive overview of Salmond's career, delving into his rise and fall, and contextualizing his political maneuvers, making it a rich source for understanding his multifaceted influence on Scottish politics. “ One of the most consequential – and divisive – politicians of his generation, Alex Salmond , who has died aged 69, transformed the Scottish National Party...
Alex Salmond, former Scottish First Minister, dies at 69
Oct. 12 / Cbs News / Highlights Salmond's significant political impact while acknowledging the controversies surrounding him, providing a balanced tribute that captures both his achievements and the complexities of his legacy. “ Alex Salmond, the former first minister of Scotland who for decades championed Scotland's independence from the U.K., has died. He was 69. U.K. Prime...