Nicola Sturgeon exploits Alex Salmond's legacy for profit
- Nicola Sturgeon faced backlash for her memoir, which criticizes Alex Salmond, encompassing alleged past disputes.
- Salmond's family claims Sturgeon is exploiting his memory for personal gain, particularly impacting his widow.
- The controversy has led to discussions about the integrity of political narratives and legacy in Scotland.
In August 2025, controversy arose in Scotland following the publication of Nicola Sturgeon’s memoir, "Frankly," which heavily criticized her predecessor, Alex Salmond. Sturgeon, who became First Minister after Salmond resigned post the 2014 independence referendum, made claims about Salmond in her book that stirred public debate. Salmond passed away from a heart attack in October 2023 at the age of 69, and his family believes Sturgeon’s remarks tarnish his reputation when he cannot defend himself. Sturgeon alleges that Salmond might have leaked information regarding a sexual misconduct investigation against him to the press in 2018. This claim was met with fierce backlash from Salmond’s family, who described her statements as "distasteful" and motivated solely by a desire to attract attention to her book. They argued that she should have chosen a different time to air such claims, especially in light of the fact that her remarks could be deeply hurtful to Salmond’s widow, Moira Salmond. The fallout from the tensions between Sturgeon and Salmond, marked by their public disagreements over various issues, ultimately led to former SNP members leaving to form the Alba Party, which advocates for independence. Salmond was cleared of all charges following a 2020 trial but faced accusations of inappropriate behavior, which were highlighted in Sturgeon’s memoir. The discussion around Sturgeon’s accusations has led to calls for legal action from Salmond’s family, who seek to continue challenges against the Scottish government regarding its handling of allegations against him. Christina Hendry, Salmond's niece, has expressed her firm stance that the family is united in defending his reputation, asserting that Sturgeon should not be allowed to utilize her uncle’s name for personal gain. The controversy has sparked a broader dialogue on the nature of political narratives and personal accountability in Scottish politics, showcasing the deep divisions still present within the SNP and its legacy.