A private funeral service is being held for Alex Salmond as the former first minister is laid to rest. A coffin draped in a saltire arrived at Strichen Parish Church, located near Salmond’s Aberdeenshire home, shortly before noon. Salmond passed away from a heart attack at the age of 69 while attending a conference in North Macedonia just over two weeks ago. The service, which is attended by family and close friends, will be followed by a private burial.

Eulogies are being delivered by Kenny MacAskill, the acting leader of the Alba Party, former SNP cabinet member Fergus Ewing, and Salmond’s niece Christina Hendry. Notable attendees include former SNP MPs Jim Sillars, Joanna Cherry, and Eilidh Whiteford, along with ex-Commons speaker John Bercow and Campbell Gunn, who advised Salmond during his tenure as first minister. Also present are Alba chairwoman Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh and SNP MSP Annabelle Ewing. A small crowd of about 20 people gathered outside the church.

First Minister John Swinney, who has submitted a motion of condolence to the Scottish Parliament, was not present at the service. A spokesperson mentioned that in accordance with the family’s wishes, the funeral is private and that the thoughts of the first minister and Scottish government are with Salmond’s family and friends.

In his eulogy released to the media, MacAskill described Salmond as a “giant” and a “political genius,” noting that he was “demanding but fair.” He emphasized Salmond’s loyalty and support during difficult times, stating that he would defend colleagues vigorously even when they made mistakes. MacAskill expressed that Salmond’s legacy is evident in various aspects of society, such as roads, bridges, free prescriptions, and tuition-free education.

Christina Hendry shared that her family has experienced “the grief of a nation,” but emphasized their personal loss, highlighting her uncle’s significance in their lives. After the service concludes, Fergus Mutch will lead the procession to the burial while playing bagpipes. The Reverend Ian McEwan, a family friend who officiated Salmond’s father’s funeral in 2017, is leading the ceremony. He expressed hope for providing comfort through a dignified tribute shielded from public view.

Salmond’s body was returned to Scotland via a private flight funded by businessman Sir Tom Hunter after he suffered a heart attack during lunch at the Academy for Cultural Diplomacy conference. His family released a statement honoring him as “a devoted husband” and “a fiercely loyal brother.” On Wednesday, MSPs are expected to pay tribute to Salmond during a parliamentary debate on the motion of condolence put forth by the first minister.