Those who have such high numbers of claims made against them generally do, which makes it all the more significant that none of these claims stuck.
From what I’ve read, he indulged in behaviour patterns which, when I was younger, would have been fairly common male behaviour. He might have been described as “handsy” or “a bit of a letch” by those criticising. He wasn’t faithful to his wife and probably would have been somewhat inappropriate in his approaches to women, but (I suspect) wouldn’t take it any further if consent wasn’t freely given.
It’s quite difficult to draw the line between flirtatious behaviour and overly flirtatious behaviour, I think, particularly where alcohol is involved. The line of what is acceptable has moved in my lifetime.
I think describing him as a sexual predator is probably way over the top.
As for the question of Alba, I guess it will depend whether someone else with charisma steps up to the plate. I think it has potential as a party. The SNP are badly soiled and that leaves a gap.
Perhaps Salmond, charismatic as he was, was not the person to start something new as his reputation had been badly damaged and there will always be those who assume no smoke without fire. I was disappointed in the lack of visibility and progress Alba made in the general election. What happens next remains to be seen. A new leader might make or break it.