Tulip Siddiq, Britain’s anti-corruption minister, stepped down from her position on Tuesday after growing pressure over her family ties, particularly her relationship with her cousin, Sheikh Hasina, the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh. Although Siddiq denied any wrongdoing, she acknowledged that the controversy surrounding her connections had become a distraction from the government’s work.
Siddiq, who had been appointed as the Economic Secretary at the Treasury after the Labour Party’s win in July, had already gone to the government’s ethics watchdog earlier this month to clear her name. This came after reports surfaced about properties in London linked to her cousin, Hasina, and ongoing corruption investigations involving Hasina’s associates in Bangladesh.
Even though the ethics investigation found no evidence of wrongdoing or financial impropriety, Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed disappointment over her resignation. He also left the possibility open for her to return to her post, saying the door would remain open for Siddiq if she moved forward.
The controversy stems from Siddiq’s connection to Sheikh Hasina, who served as Bangladesh’s longest-running Prime Minister before being ousted in August 2024 after a civil uprising. Hasina, now living in India, is facing multiple legal charges, including crimes against humanity. Siddiq’s family was involved in an anti-corruption probe years ago, which included allegations of embezzlement linked to a nuclear power deal between Bangladesh and Russia. Siddiq, however, denied being part of the scandal.
Despite no evidence linking Siddiq directly to the scandal, the government’s independent ethics advisor, Laurie Magnus, highlighted the risks her family ties posed to her reputation. Siddiq’s resignation marks a significant blow to Starmer’s government, which has been trying to maintain political momentum. This controversy serves as a reminder of the challenges officials face when their personal or family connections intersect with politically unstable regions, particularly in a world where global affairs can make local politics complicated.
