Former first minister Alex Salmond recently reflected on his decision to step down from his role following the 2014 independence referendum in Scotland. Salmond expressed regret over his choice to resign the day after the referendum, where the Yes campaign fell short with a 55% to 45% vote for independence. In a new documentary titled “A Decade of Debate” by ITV Border, Salmond revealed that he would have stayed in office if he had known that Scotland would still be awaiting independence ten years later.
Regret Over Departure
Salmond’s decision to hand over the reins to his deputy, Nicola Sturgeon, was based on his belief that it would serve as a strategic move for the national movement towards independence. However, looking back, Salmond now considers this decision a “mistake”. He admitted in the documentary that he thought Scotland was on the verge of independence within a reasonable timescale, which prompted him to step down. Reflecting on this choice, Salmond acknowledged, “Now, in retrospect, that was a daft thing to do.”
Unexpected Delay
The former first minister expressed surprise and disappointment over the fact that Scotland is still waiting for independence despite what he perceived as numerous opportunities over the past decade. Salmond remarked that if he had known Scotland would still be in the same position after ten years, he would have opted to remain in office and continue working towards independence. This revelation highlights the uncertainty and challenges faced by the independence movement in Scotland.
Nicola Sturgeon’s Perspective
In response to Salmond’s reflections, current First Minister Nicola Sturgeon shared her thoughts on the situation. Sturgeon questioned whether Salmond would have been able to achieve different outcomes if he had stayed in office. She delicately acknowledged that Salmond may feel that he could have handled things better during his tenure. Sturgeon also revealed her initial hesitations about stepping into Salmond’s shoes when he decided to resign, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and introspection before taking on such a significant role.
Sturgeon explained that her decision to consider her capabilities and desires before assuming the position of first minister was a crucial step in her journey. She emphasized the importance of taking a moment to evaluate one’s readiness and willingness to lead, especially in a challenging and high-profile role like the first minister of Scotland. Sturgeon’s introspective approach to leadership highlights the thoughtful and deliberate decision-making process that she underwent before assuming the responsibilities of the office.
The documentary featuring these candid reflections from both Salmond and Sturgeon is set to air on ITV Border Scotland. The deep introspection and regret expressed by Salmond, coupled with Sturgeon’s thoughtful considerations, offer a unique insight into the complexities and uncertainties surrounding the quest for Scottish independence. As Scotland continues to navigate its path towards potential independence, the reflections of its past and present leaders shed light on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.