Tulip Siddiq, the UK’s Minister for Economic and City Affairs, has come under immense pressure following allegations of corruption, including receiving a luxury flat as a gift from a businessperson closely linked to the Awami League in Bangladesh. The Times, a prominent British newspaper, has published an editorial calling for her resignation while investigations into the allegations proceed.

The editorial criticized UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for appointing Siddiq to such a crucial position, stating that her selection lacked transparency and merit. Siddiq, the niece of Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has faced accusations of financial misconduct connected to her familial ties. She has consistently denied all allegations.

The controversy intensified after it was revealed that Siddiq had been living in a £2 million flat gifted by a Bangladeshi businessman closely associated with her aunt's political party. She was also found to have received rental income from another property while residing in the gifted flat. Additionally, allegations emerged regarding her prior residence in another flat linked to an advisor of her aunt. These revelations followed an earlier parliamentary investigation into undeclared rental income, which Siddiq passed after admitting an administrative oversight.

The Times editorial expressed doubt about her qualifications for the City Minister role, citing her limited interest in the UK’s financial services sector and lack of initiatives to sustain London as a global economic hub. It also criticized Starmer for what it described as favoritism in appointing Siddiq, referencing her status as a neighbor in North London.

UK authorities have initiated investigations into Siddiq’s financial dealings, including her alleged connections to her aunt Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League. The inquiry is expected to examine her real estate holdings, including the properties in question and their potential links to individuals tied to Bangladesh’s ruling party.

The editorial also referenced broader allegations of corruption involving Sheikh Hasina's government, including irregularities in Bangladesh’s Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant project. Although Siddiq has denied any involvement, the editorial suggested her proximity to these allegations raises significant concerns about her integrity.

The Times argued that while Siddiq could become a victim of political targeting due to her familial ties, she has failed to maintain sufficient distance from her supporters’ influence. The editorial stated that the minister’s role requires complete impartiality, which has been compromised amid mounting evidence of undue influence and undisclosed benefits.

The editorial concluded by asserting that Siddiq’s continuation in the ministerial role during the investigation would undermine public trust in the government. It recommended that she step down until her name is cleared. Should the investigation exonerate her, a path for her reinstatement could be considered.