British MP Tulip Siddiq, niece of ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has accused Nobel laureate and interim Bangladeshi leader Muhammad Yunus of interfering in UK politics and orchestrating a smear campaign against her. The allegations come amid ongoing corruption investigations launched by Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), which Siddiq claims are politically motivated.
“Baseless Allegations Meant to Damage My Reputation”
Siddiq, who resigned as the UK’s Treasury Minister in January 2025 following corruption claims linked to her family, has denied all wrongdoing. In a legal notice sent to Yunus and the ACC, her legal team described the charges as “completely false and unlawful”, accusing the Bangladeshi authorities of attempting to disrupt her public service in the UK.
“I will not be allowing them to drag me into their world of dirty politics,” Siddiq told Sky News. “This is a political vendetta, a smear campaign, and malicious persecution from the beginning”.
Background: From Resignation to Legal Battle
The ACC has accused Siddiq of illegally acquiring land and properties during Hasina’s tenure, including a flat in Dhaka’s Gulshan area. Siddiq’s lawyers argue that the investigation is prejudiced and lacks transparency, citing Yunus’s public comments and refusal to meet her during his UK visit earlier this month.
Yunus Denies Interference, Defends Legal Process
Yunus’s office has denied all allegations of political interference, stating that the ACC’s actions are based on documentary evidence and legal procedures. His press secretary emphasized that any pending charges will be resolved in Bangladeshi courts, and warned that proceedings may continue in absentia if Siddiq fails to appear.
A Diplomatic Flashpoint
The controversy has sparked diplomatic tension, with Yunus previously urging the UK to investigate Siddiq’s alleged assets and calling for the return of funds linked to Hasina’s regime. Siddiq, meanwhile, has set a June 30 deadline for the ACC to respond, after which she says she will consider the matter closed.
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