The widow of Alex Salmond is suing the Scottish Government over its investigation into sexual harassment allegations made against him.
Moira Salmond has appointed a team of lawyers to restart the former first minister's case against the government's handling of harassment complaints in 2018.
Mr Salmond had been pursuing legal action at the time of his death in October last year. The Alba Party founder died of a heart attack in North Macedonia, aged 69.
His wife's decision to proceed with his case is said to be driven by comments made in Nicola Sturgeon's memoir, Frankly.
A family friend told the Sunday Mail: “Moira is upset and angered by the continued attempts to smear Alex in the book – much of which is ridiculous and inaccurate.
“It has only strengthened her resolve to make sure that the full truth comes out and that Alex’s name is cleared.
“Her case against the Scottish Government is now live, the legal team is in place, the finance in place, and this will be going ahead, no question of that.
“Alex may not be here to defend himself but his family are determined to stand up to those who continue to attack him.
“There is an adjustment period ongoing until September where updates can be made by either side to their paperwork, it takes time but the ball is rolling.
"Anyone who thinks this is just going to go away is wrong.”