Former Scottish deputy first minister Jim Wallace passes away
Jim Wallace, Scotland’s first ever deputy first minister, has died aged 71 after complications from surgery, reports BritPanorama.
The former leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats passed away following a scheduled major operation at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh on Thursday.
His wife, Rosie Wallace, expressed her shock at his sudden death, stating, “The family are very shocked by Jim’s death. It was all so sudden. He was still incredibly active in a whole host of areas.”
Lord Wallace, who served as Deputy First Minister from 1999 to 2005, also held the position of acting First Minister during critical periods in 2000 and 2001, following the deaths of Donald Dewar and the resignation of Henry McLeish respectively.
In addition to his political roles, he was a Liberal Democrat life peer in the House of Lords since 2007, leading the party in the upper chamber from 2013 to 2016.
Born in Dumfriesshire in 1954, Wallace’s political career flourished across Scotland. He led the Scottish Liberal Democrats for 13 years and served as the MP for Orkney and Shetland from 1983 to 2021, as well as a Member of the Scottish Parliament for Orkney from 1999 to 2007.
He married Rosie in 1983, and the couple had two daughters together. His legacy within Scottish politics is marked by his commitment to public service and leadership in progressive causes.
As Scotland reflects on the life of Jim Wallace, the impact of his contributions to Scottish political history will be long remembered.
In an era defined by significant political evolution and challenges, Wallace’s career remains a testament to the value of sustained democratic engagement and leadership. His passing marks the end of an important chapter in Scotland’s political narrative, prompting reflection on the paths forged by those who have shaped its governance.
