UK PM Starmer backs Tulip Siddiq accused of embezzling billions in Bangladesh
Siddiq is alleged to have been involved in brokering a 2013 deal with Russia for a nuclear power plant in Bangladesh in which billions of dollars are said to have been embezzled
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has given his full support to Tulip Siddiq, the treasury minister, after Bangladesh's Anti-Corruption Commission accused her and family members of embezzling billions, reports The Guardian.
Siddiq is alleged to have been involved in brokering a 2013 deal with Russia for a nuclear power plant in Bangladesh in which billions of dollars are said to have been embezzled. She has denied any involvement in the claims.
While Downing Street has offered her strong support, the issue adds to Keir Starmer's challenges following a turbulent period, including the unexpected resignation of former transport secretary Louise Haigh.
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The UK Conservatives were quick to exploit the situation, calling it "the latest stain on Keir Starmer's judgment".
Siddiq is also the niece of Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh's former prime minister, who led the country for 15 years before being overthrown in a revolution last August.
Hasina's government faced accusations of authoritarianism, human rights abuses, and widespread corruption. Both she and her ministers are now under investigation for mass murder and crimes against humanity. An arrest warrant was recently issued for Hasina, who currently resides in exile in India and denies the allegations.
The investigation into Siddiq was initiated as part of a broader inquiry by Bangladesh's Anti-Corruption Commission, focusing on crimes and corruption linked to Hasina's regime.
A submission to the commission alleged that Siddiq played a key role in facilitating meetings with Russian officials to secure a controversial deal, claiming Hasina and her family received "30% of the embezzled funds in exchange for their mediation."
The deal was signed at the Kremlin in 2013, with photos showing Siddiq present alongside Hasina and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Siddiq has previously denied any wrongdoing, asserting that her presence at the signing was part of a "family occasion".
Addressing the allegations, Keir Starmer's official spokesperson affirmed the prime minister's full confidence in Siddiq and confirmed her ongoing role in tackling anti-corruption issues.
"The minister has denied any involvement," the spokesperson said. "I cannot comment on the Bangladeshi anti-corruption commission or unconfirmed media speculation."
In the register of minister's interests released last month, Siddiq noted that her aunt "was previously prime minister of Bangladesh." According to Keir Starmer's spokesperson, Siddiq has recused herself from any decisions related to Bangladesh.
When asked if her involvement in the 2013 deal constituted a conflict of interest, the spokesperson responded, "I can't speak to events that occurred before a minister's time in government." He further emphasised that there is a "very clear declaration process" for ministers, which Siddiq had adhered to.
The investigation also implicates Hasina, Siddiq's mother Sheikh Rehana, and other family members in connection to a £10 billion agreement with Russia to construct a nuclear power plant in Bangladesh. Allegations claim that Siddiq, Hasina, and their relatives received £4 billion in kickbacks from the deal.
It is understood that Bangladeshi authorities have not contacted Siddiq regarding the inquiry, which is based on allegations made by Bobby Hajjaj, a political opponent during Hasina's tenure.
