In a dramatic escalation of tensions within the Scottish National Party, former First Minister Alex Salmond has publicly denounced his successor Nicola Sturgeon as 'cowardly' in a deeply personal attack that has sent shockwaves through Scottish politics.
A Family Feud Turns Political
The bitter rift between the two former allies deepened this week as Salmond directed his criticism at Sturgeon's family, accusing them of avoiding confrontation. Political analysts suggest this marks a new low in the deteriorating relationship between the two most prominent figures of the Scottish independence movement.
The Background of the Bitter Split
Once close colleagues who worked side by side for Scottish independence, Salmond and Sturgeon's relationship soured following sexual misconduct allegations against Salmond in 2018, which he strongly denied and was later cleared of in court. The subsequent fallout created divisions that continue to plague the SNP today.
Key developments in the feud include:
- Salmond's acquittal on all charges in 2020
- Sturgeon's government being found to have acted unlawfully in handling complaints
- Ongoing parliamentary inquiries into the Scottish government's actions
Political Fallout Intensifies
The latest outburst comes at a sensitive time for the SNP, with the party facing internal divisions over its strategy for achieving independence. Salmond's comments are seen by many as an attempt to undermine Sturgeon's leadership from outside the party, having formed his own Alba Party after leaving the SNP.
'This public airing of grievances does nothing to help the independence cause,' said one senior SNP figure who wished to remain anonymous. 'It's deeply disappointing to see personal animosities playing out in this way.'
What This Means for Scottish Politics
The very public spat between Scotland's two most recognizable political figures threatens to:
- Damage public confidence in the SNP's leadership
- Distract from key policy issues including post-pandemic recovery
- Create further divisions within the independence movement
With Scottish elections looming, political observers warn that this feud could have significant consequences for the future of Scottish nationalism and the UK's constitutional future.
