Non-recent allegation of sexual assault made against late Alex Salmond received by police
Former Scottish first minister died suddenly aged 69 during political visit to North Macedonia last month
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A non-recent allegation of sexual assault made against Alex Salmond has been received by police.
Salmond was leader of the Alba Party up until he died suddenly aged 69 during a visit to North Macedonia last month.
The politician was first minister of Scotland from 2007-2014 under the Scottish National Party (SNP) government but resigned from the SNP in 2018 after a number of allegations of sexual misconduct came to light.
He was later cleared of all 14 charges in 2020 – being found not guilty of 12, while prosecutors withdrew another charge and one was found not proven.
Police Scotland has now said a separate report of misconduct has been filed against Mr Salmond.
A spokesperson said: “We can confirm that we have received a report of a non-recent sexual assault. The information is being assessed.”
Responding to coverage of the allegations reported by the media, Alba Party general secretary Chris McEleny said the claims are “smears” and urged for Salmond to be allowed to “rest in peace”.
The former SNP leader, who went on to set up the Alba Party, had been speaking at a conference when he suffered a heart attack on 12 October.
His funeral was held on 29 October in Strichen, Aberdeenshire.
As well as Salmond’s family, several political figures were in attendance at the service, including former speaker of the House of Commons John Bercow.
Close friend Kenny MacAskill, who has become interim Alba Party leader following Salmond’s death, arrived at Strichen Parish Church, as did party chair Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh.
The Scottish government said it would not be appropriate to comment at this time.
The Independent has contacted the SNP for comment.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.