British lawmaker Tulip Siddiq has denounced a Bangladeshi court decision that sentenced her in absentia to two years in prison, calling the process “flawed and farcical.” She said the ruling should be treated with contempt, describing it as an unjust outcome from what she labelled a “kangaroo court.”
Speaking to The Guardian on Monday, Siddiq criticised the handling of the case, saying the proceedings lacked credibility from start to finish. She maintained that the verdict was entirely predictable given the political context surrounding it.
Background and Political Connections
Siddiq, who is the niece of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, stepped down in January as Britain’s minister for financial services and anti-corruption. Her resignation followed scrutiny over her financial links to her aunt, though she continues to serve as a Member of Parliament.
The controversy has drawn attention in both the UK and Bangladesh, as Siddiq’s family ties place her at the intersection of two political landscapes. Despite stepping aside from her ministerial role, she has remained vocal about defending her reputation and challenging what she views as politically motivated actions.
Siddiq Rejects Allegations as Smear Campaign
Siddiq has consistently dismissed the accusations against her, describing them as a “politically motivated smear.” She insists that the charges were designed to damage her credibility and career rather than reflect any genuine wrongdoing.
Her statement underscores her determination to continue her political work in Britain while rejecting what she sees as an unfair and politically influenced process in Bangladesh.
(with inputs from Reuters)
