Tulip Siddiq, the UK's treasury and anticorruption minister, resigned on January 14, 2025, amid swirling controversy over her alleged links to corruption charges faced by her aunt, Sheikh Hasina, the deposed former prime minister of Bangladesh. The allegations have sparked intense media scrutiny and prompted calls for Siddiq's removal. This resignation marks a significant development in a tumultuous political saga that intertwines familial ties with international corruption investigations.
Laurie Magnus, an adviser on ministerial standards, investigated the matter surrounding Siddiq's alleged involvement. Despite his findings showing "no evidence of improprieties" linked to Siddiq, the pressure from the public and political opponents mounted. Siddiq even referred herself to the UK parliament's ethics board to address questions regarding the ownership of London properties allegedly financed by allies of Hasina's regime.
"not been able to obtain comprehensive comfort in relation to all the UK property-related matters referred to in the media" – Laurie Magnus
The controversy traces back to Siddiq's family ties with Hasina, who was overthrown as Bangladesh's leader after mass student-led protests erupted into nationwide unrest against a government job quota scheme in August. The Bangladesh Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) announced it was investigating Siddiq's family for alleged embezzlement of $5 billion related to the construction of a power plant in Rooppur and fraudulent acquisition of plots near Dhaka.
"casts doubt on the Prime Minister’s judgement" – Unnamed Labour MP
Siddiq's ownership of UK properties, including one in London reportedly gifted by Moin Ghani, a lawyer associated with Hasina's government, became a focal point. Siddiq maintained she was unaware of the financial arrangements behind these properties. Her presence alongside Hasina and Russian President Vladimir Putin at a 2013 Russia-Bangladesh arms deal further fueled speculation.
"lack of records and lapse of time" – Laurie Magnus
The political fallout reached Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who faced criticism for his handling of the situation. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp expressed concerns about Starmer's judgment in initially appointing Siddiq as treasury minister amidst ongoing investigations.
"far too slow to act in this case" – Chris Philp
Kemi Badenoch, a prominent political figure, voiced strong disapproval, arguing that Starmer had been "far too slow to act" and criticized his perceived protection of Siddiq. As the controversy intensified, Starmer appointed Emma Reynolds, previously a pensions minister, to fill Siddiq's role.
"clear at the weekend that the anti-corruption minister’s position was completely untenable" – Kemi Badenoch
"Yet Keir Starmer dithered and delayed to protect his close friend" – Kemi Badenoch
In her resignation letter, Siddiq acknowledged that while she had not breached the ministerial code, the matter would continue to distract from the government's work. Her departure comes as a criminal case is filed against her in Bangladesh, further complicating the political landscape.
"Even now, as Bangladesh files a criminal case against Tulip Siddiq, he expresses ‘sadness’ at her inevitable resignation" – Kemi Badenoch
"Weak leadership from a weak Prime Minister" – Kemi Badenoch
The political ramifications of Siddiq's resignation extend beyond personal ties and raise questions about property ownership and international influence. The independent adviser's report leaves lingering concerns about the origins of some high-value properties linked to Siddiq. Despite these unanswered questions, Starmer reiterated his support for Siddiq, emphasizing that no evidence of financial misconduct was found against her.
"no evidence of financial improprieties on your part" – Keir Starmer
