Canon Kenyon Wright, one of pivotal figures in the creation of the Scottish Parliament, has died at the age of 84.
The retired Episcopalian priest died peacefully on Wednesday.
Wright chaired the cross-party Scottish Constitutional Convention for a decade from 1989 to 1999 and was one of the dri.
The news was confirmed on behalf of the family’s request by the First Minister.
Nicola Sturgeon said: “I am deeply saddened by the death of Canon Kenyon Wright and my thoughts are with his family. He is a great loss to Scotland’s political, civic and religious communities.
“His input to the creation of the Scottish Parliament cannot be overstated.
“His chairmanship of the Scottish Constitutional Convention, which led to the creation of the Scottish Parliament, was testament to his strength of character, tenacity and charisma.
“He was able to bring together the different strands of Scottish politics and society to achieve consensus about the way ahead for Scottish devolution.
“His legacy will live on through the work of the Scottish Parliament.”
Commenting on the sad passing of Canon Kenyon Wright, Alex Salmond MP said:
“Canon Kenyon Wright was one of the great spirits of the movement of self-government.
“His role in the Scottish Constitutional Convention showed a patience, commitment and determination of extraordinary dimensions.
“In more recent times, his willingness to embrace the independence cause demonstrated that his belief in Scotland transcended any political party or particular position – his guiding light was the right of self-determination of the people of Scotland.
“Scotland has cause to be grateful for the life of our very own grand Canon, and his passing will be mourned by many.”
Wright campaigned for a Yes vote during the 2014 independence referendum.
