Allegations of embezzling nearly $4 billion have been levelled against former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and her family concerning the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant project in Pabna.
Among those implicated is Hasina's niece, Tulip Siddiq, a prominent minister in the United Kingdom's ruling Labour Party.
According to The Sunday Times, Siddiq was interrogated last Thursday by the UK Cabinet Office's Propriety and Ethics Team.
During the questioning, Siddiq reportedly clarified her position, although she has refrained from commenting publicly on the matter.
A cabinet office spokesperson stated that Siddiq has denied any involvement in the alleged embezzlement.
Tulip Siddiq, who serves as the economic secretary to the Treasury and City Minister in the UK Labour government, is responsible for overseeing financial market corruption.
However, allegations suggest her involvement dates back to 2013, when discussions with Russia over the Rooppur Nuclear Plant project began.
It is claimed that Siddiq acted as a mediator, despite not holding any official position in Britain at the time.
The accusations extend to Hasina's son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and sister, Sheikh Rehana, further entangling the former leader’s family in the controversy.
Downing Street has expressed confidence in Siddiq's integrity.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has stated that Siddiq will continue her ministerial duties, including anti-corruption oversight.
A spokesperson from Starmer's office reiterated Siddiq’s denial of any connection to the misappropriation claims.
Meanwhile, The Daily Mail reported that Siddiq is expected to face further questioning next month.
In addition, Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission plans to send an official letter to the UK via the British High Commission in Dhaka, bringing Siddiq under the purview of foreign crime investigation protocols.
The unfolding case has drawn significant international attention, casting a shadow over Tulip Siddiq’s ministerial responsibilities and raising broader questions about governance and accountability in transnational corruption cases.
