The United Kingdom’s Anti-Corruption Minister, Tulip Siddiq, has stepped down amidst growing scrutiny over her financial connections to her aunt, Sheikh Hasina, the ousted Prime Minister of Bangladesh.
Siddiq, who had been under pressure following allegations linked to her family, tendered her resignation on Tuesday, citing concerns that her position could distract from the government’s work. This development comes despite Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressing confidence in her integrity just last week.
Her resignation marks the second departure of a government minister in two months, a setback for Starmer’s administration, which has been grappling with declining approval ratings since the Labour Party’s victory in the July 2024 general elections.
In her resignation letter, Siddiq maintained her innocence, stating she had not violated the ministerial code. However, the government’s ethics adviser noted the reputational risks associated with her family’s close ties to Bangladesh, urging Starmer to consider her responsibilities carefully.
The controversy revolves around allegations of financial misconduct during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure, including irregularities worth billions of dollars tied to a $12.65 billion nuclear power contract. Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission accused Hasina and her relatives, including Siddiq, of benefiting from these deals.
Muhammad Yunus, head of the press office of Bangladesh’s interim government, commented that Siddiq might not have been fully aware of the origins of assets she enjoyed in London, but urged her to seek the forgiveness of the Bangladeshi people.
The government of Bangladesh has reiterated its commitment to recovering stolen funds and is collaborating with international partners to address corruption.
