Alex Salmond’s coffin, draped in the saltire, has been tenderly taken aboard a plane destined for Scotland. The flight, departing from Ohrid St Paul the Apostle Airport just after 10:20 am UK time, will transport Salmond’s body back to the north-east of Scotland, close to his home in Strichen, Aberdeenshire. The area held a significant place in his heart, representing both his seats at Westminster and Holyrood.
Members of the North Macedonian military, with solemn respect, carried Salmond’s coffin to the flight, led by former SNP MP and Alba Party chairwoman Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh, who placed the saltire on top. As the coffin was loaded onto the plane, a moment of silence was observed, accompanied by the somber sound of a trumpet. This poignant tribute marked the beginning of Salmond’s journey back to his homeland.
The flight, privately chartered and generously covered by businessman Sir Tom Hunter, is expected to land in Aberdeen in the afternoon. The decision to use a private aircraft for the transport followed complexities surrounding diplomatic protocols after Salmond’s sudden passing due to a heart attack in North Macedonia.
Salmond’s family intends to hold a private funeral for the former SNP leader, with plans for a larger public memorial service later in the year. The compassionate gesture of bringing Salmond home to Scotland reflects the profound impact he had on the political landscape of the country.
Despite initial requests for the RAF to conduct the repatriation, it was deemed that, as a private citizen at the time of his demise, the military would not perform this duty. However, the outpouring of support, culminating in the symbolic journey of Salmond’s coffin adorned in the saltire, highlights the deep respect and honour accorded to a prominent figure in Scottish politics.