UK City Minister Tulip Siddiq is under increasing scrutiny following revelations about her ownership of a central London apartment linked to a Bangladeshi developer associated with the Awami League, the political party of her aunt and former Bangladeshi Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina.
According to a report by the Financial Times on January 3, Land Registry filings reveal that Siddiq acquired a two-bedroom apartment near King’s Cross in 2004 without making a payment. The property was registered under Abdul Motalif, a developer with ties to the Awami League, which Sheikh Hasina led before being ousted in August 2004 amid widespread protests.
Allegations of Corruption Amid Ministerial Responsibilities
The revelations come at a sensitive time for Siddiq, who, as city minister, is responsible for overseeing the UK’s financial sector, including efforts to combat corruption. In December 2024, she denied involvement in allegations of corruption after being named in an investigation in Bangladesh.
These latest claims are likely to fuel further questions about her links to the Awami League. A spokesperson for Siddiq told the Financial Times: “Any suggestion that Tulip Siddiq’s ownership of this property, or any other property, is in any way linked to support for the Awami League, would be categorically wrong.”
Siddiq has yet to issue a direct comment on the matter, while Abdul Motalif confirmed to the Financial Times that he purchased the property but declined to elaborate on its subsequent ownership.
Awkward Timing for the UK Government
The allegations create an awkward situation for the UK government, particularly given Siddiq’s portfolio responsibilities for financial oversight and anti-corruption efforts. Critics argue that her connection to the property and its origins warrants further investigation to ensure transparency and accountability.
As questions mount, the situation places added pressure on Siddiq to clarify the circumstances surrounding the acquisition of the London property, as well as her ties to her aunt’s former government.
