The political drama between Nicola Sturgeon and Alex Salmond’s camp has flared up again after Sturgeon’s new memoir dropped some explosive revelations.
In her book, she accuses her former mentor of trying to “destroy” her politically, reigniting a long-standing feud that’s been simmering since serious allegations against Salmond first surfaced.
Revenge and Rupture Behind Closed Doors
Sturgeon claims Salmond sought revenge after she refused to intervene in the government’s internal investigation into sexual misconduct allegations made against him.
She paints a picture of a man who grew distant and cold once the accusations came to light — someone she believed would rather see their party crumble than succeed without him.
Old Friends Turned Political Enemies
The former First Minister recalls how deeply painful it was to accept that Salmond had turned against her.
She describes going through a grieving process over the loss of their friendship while preparing for what she calls “mortal political combat” against a ruthless and effective opponent.
Denying a Conspiracy, Defending Her Actions
In the memoir, Sturgeon strongly denies any conspiracy against Salmond, calling such claims a fabrication by a man unwilling to honestly face his own behavior.
She also distances herself from leaks about the government’s investigation, even suggesting that Salmond himself might have been responsible.
The Salmond Trial and Its Aftermath
Salmond was cleared of 13 sexual offence charges in a 2020 Edinburgh High Court trial. Yet, the whole saga has left scars.
The initial Scottish Government inquiry was ruled unlawful and biased, costing the government over half a million pounds in legal fees.
This messy episode also caused a split in the Nationalist movement and personal heartbreak for both politicians.
Salmond’s Allies Fight Back Hard
Kenny MacAskill, a close friend of Salmond and former SNP Justice Secretary, responded fiercely to Sturgeon’s memoir.
He accused her of rewriting history and distorting the truth, arguing that the government’s flawed inquiry was central to the controversy.
MacAskill also called for a full investigation into what he sees as a cover-up, warning that history will judge Sturgeon harshly.
The Lingering Shadow of a Political Storm
Sturgeon admits in her book that Salmond’s presence will haunt her “even in death.”
She describes her shock and nausea upon first hearing the allegations and touches on the lasting emotional toll.
Salmond died in October 2024, and notably, Sturgeon did not attend his funeral but was seen at a different memorial event around the same time.
Personal Struggles Beyond Politics
The memoir doesn’t just revisit political battles—it also shares personal moments.
Sturgeon opens up about her 2023 arrest, calling it “mental torture,” reveals the heartbreak of a miscarriage in 2010, and discusses her sexuality, emphasizing it is not “binary.”
