By Mohammed Shahid Miah, Editor, The Journalistic
June 13, 2025
London/Dhaka – British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has reportedly refused a meeting request from Professor Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor of Bangladesh’s interim government, regarding alleged money laundering involving Bangladeshi politicians and UK-based individuals, including Labour MP Tulip Siddiq. The decision has sparked mixed reactions in the UK, with government and opposition figures weighing in, while protests and public receptions for Prof. Yunus highlight the divisive nature of the issue. According to senior Bangladeshi government officials, Prof. Yunus—who recently traveled to the UK to receive a prestigious Harmony Award from King Charles III—sought discussions with PM Starmer on the matter. However, the request was denied due to the “sensitivity” of the issue, which could potentially impact Starmer’s political standing.
The Controversy: Alleged Money Laundering & Tulip Siddiq’s Links
The allegations stem from claims that several high-ranking Bangladeshi politicians, including members of the previous government, laundered money through UK-based entities. Among those named is Tulip Siddiq, Labour MP for Hampstead and Kilburn and a former shadow minister, who is also the niece of Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.Bangladeshi investigative agencies, including the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), have reportedly been probing suspicious financial transactions linked to Siddiq’s office. While Siddiq has denied any wrongdoing, the issue has gained traction in both UK and Bangladeshi media.A senior Bangladeshi official, speaking anonymously to The Daily Guardian, stated: “The UK government is aware of the allegations, but diplomatic and political sensitivities have prevented open engagement. Starmer’s refusal to meet Prof. Yunus suggests the Labour leadership is cautious about being drawn into this controversy.”
Why Did Starmer Refuse the Meeting with Professor Yunus?
Sources within Downing Street, cited by Sky News, suggest that Starmer’s office considered the matter too politically sensitive, given Siddiq’s role in the Labour Party. A senior Conservative MP criticized the Labour leadership, telling BBC:“If the Prime Minister is avoiding discussions on corruption allegations involving one of his own MPs, it raises serious questions about transparency. The British public deserves to know whether their representatives are involved in illicit financial activities.”Meanwhile, a Labour Party spokesperson stated: “The UK government takes all allegations of financial misconduct seriously and cooperates with international partners where appropriate. However, it would be improper to comment on ongoing investigations.”
Protests & Public Reception for Prof. Yunus
Sources within Downing Street, cited by Sky News, suggest that Starmer’s office considered the matter too politically sensitive, given Siddiq’s role in the Labour Party. A senior Conservative MP criticized the Labour leadership, telling BBC:“If the Prime Minister is avoiding discussions on corruption allegations involving one of his own MPs, it raises serious questions about transparency. The British public deserves to know whether their representatives are involved in illicit financial activities.”Meanwhile, a Labour Party spokesperson stated: “The UK government takes all allegations of financial misconduct seriously and cooperates with international partners where appropriate. However, it would be improper to comment on ongoing investigations.”
During Prof. Yunus’s visit to the UK, activists from the Awami League (the ruling party of Bangladesh’s previous government) staged protests outside his London hotel, accusing him of political bias. Demonstrators held placards reading “Yunus Stop Spreading Lies” and “Hands Off Bangladesh’s Sovereignty.”Conversely, Prof. Yunus was warmly welcomed by members of the Bangladeshi diaspora and anti-corruption campaigners upon his arrival at Heathrow Airport. Supporters chanted slogans praising his efforts for accountability, with one attendee telling Al Jazeera:
“Prof. Yunus is a symbol of integrity. If the UK government refuses to engage with him, it sends a terrible message about their commitment to fighting global corruption.”
International & Diplomatic Implications
The refusal to meet Prof. Yunus has raised concerns among transparency advocates. The Economist noted that the UK’s reluctance could be seen as protecting political allies rather than upholding anti-money laundering laws.Bangladesh’s interim government has yet to issue an official statement, but insiders suggest that Dhaka may seek alternative diplomatic channels to address the issue.
With the NCA reportedly reviewing evidence from Bangladesh, legal experts suggest that formal investigations could follow. Meanwhile, Tulip Siddiq’s political future remains under scrutiny, as opposition MPs demand clarity from the Labour leadership.As Prof. Yunus departs the UK, the contrasting reactions—from protests to public acclaim—underscore the deep divisions surrounding Bangladesh’s political and financial controversies.
Sources: BBC, The Daily Guardian, Al Jazeera, Sky News, Dhaka Tribune, Prothom Alo, The Economist