PRIME Minister Keir Starmer has encountered another challenge with the resignation of Tulip Siddiq, the UK’s anti-corruption minister. Siddiq stepped down following her implication in an embezzlement investigation in Bangladesh, as reported by The New York Times.
Tulip Siddiq, aged 42, is the niece of Sheikh Hasina, the former prime minister of Bangladesh. Hasina, 77, has been residing in India since 5 August after fleeing Bangladesh. Her departure followed widespread student-led protests that ended her 16-year tenure.
In a statement shared on X, Siddiq confirmed that an independent review had found no evidence of wrongdoing or breach of the Ministerial Code on her part. However, she explained her decision to step aside to avoid distracting from the Government’s work.
“An independent review has confirmed that I have not breached the Ministerial Code and there is no evidence to suggest I have acted improperly. Nonetheless, to avoid distraction for the Government, I have resigned as City Minister,” she wrote.
In a resignation letter also posted on X, Siddiq highlighted her transparency and adherence to official advice throughout her tenure.
She explained that her family ties were disclosed when she took on the ministerial role, and steps were taken to address potential conflicts of interest.
“My family connections are a matter of public record, and when I became a Minister, I provided the full details of my relationships and private interests to the Government. After extensive consultation with officials, I was advised to state in my declaration of interest that my aunt is the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and to recuse myself from matters relating to Bangladesh to avoid any perception of a conflict of interest,” Siddiq stated.
She reiterated her commitment to the Labour Government and its plans for “national renewal and transformation.”
However, Siddiq acknowledged that remaining in her position as Economic Secretary to the Treasury could undermine the Government’s focus.
“My loyalty is and always will be to this Labour Government and the programme of national renewal and transformation it has embarked upon. I have therefore decided to resign from my Ministerial position,” she concluded.
