Charles Kennedy

[RWB Robin]

In these days of high cynicism about politicians, the shock of losing a genuine, generous, funny and principled man like Charles Kennedy is enormous.  He was liked and respected across the spectrum because he was able to take a stand on policies (whether you agreed with him or not) without attacking and undermining his opponents. He also addressed his own personal problems openly and responsibly, giving encouragement to many others facing their own demons.  May he rest in peace, and may the political class remember him by adopting a few of his principles.

[horlock07]

Hear hear!

[Nemo]

Only party leader against the Iraq War in 2003, and main prominent Lib Dem warning that the coalition would destroy them electorally in 2010. Hindsight makes his judgement look pretty impressive, doesn't it?

Always seemed like a human as well, which is rare in politics. As with the old Not the Nine O'Clock News sketch, it's wearisome to see those who ignored him totally queueing up to praise him now.

[Red Frog]

Agree. A thoroughly decent, principled man. As if politics can afford to lose one of those.

[OrangeTransits]

Drank himself to death !!!! Liked the top shelf too much.... Lovely guy but had some issues.

[THE FLASH]

Liking the pop too much IS an illness.

Thrown to the dogs when it became a problem.

Dead now and getting lots of gushing tributes.

Doesn't need his friends now.....he needed them then.