Face court or be declared fugitive, ACC tells Tulip Siddiq

ACC reiterates that corruption allegations against Tulip Siddiq are backed by documentary evidence and warns that failure to appear in court will result in her being declared a fugitive

Staff Correspondent

Publisted at 3:18 PM, Sun Apr 6th, 2025

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has stated that it remains unfazed by a legal letter sent on behalf of Tulip Siddiq, a former UK Minister for Anti-Corruption who recently resigned amid corruption allegations.

Addressing a press briefing on Sunday (6 April), ACC Chairman Dr Mohammad Abdul Momen said the commission had noted a media report concerning correspondence from Siddiq’s legal representatives.

“It is hardly surprising that lawyers write letters to placate their clients,” he remarked pointedly.

The commission has advised Siddiq’s counsel to contest the charges in court, asserting that corruption cases are not matters that can be resolved through mere exchanges of letters.

According to reports, Siddiq told Sky News she was unaware of the allegations and claimed no official from the ACC had contacted her.

Despite enjoying the political protection of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Siddiq was compelled to resign following corruption charges, the ACC noted.

The commission maintains that the charges against Siddiq are grounded in documented evidence, and her presence in court is required.

Should she fail to appear following the issuance of an arrest warrant, she will be deemed a fugitive.

The charge sheet has been finalised after a comprehensive examination of documentary materials.

While the court will proceed with the case, implementation of orders will fall under the purview of the Ministry of Home Affairs, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also expected to be engaged.

ACC emphasised that the same legal procedures apply to all accused individuals who are evading justice, including Sheikh Hasina, Sheikh Rehana, Sajeeb Wazed, Saima Wazed, Radwan Mujib Siddiq, and Azmina Siddiq. 

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