Tulip Must Face Trial in Bangladesh as Citizen: ACC Chief

Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Chairman Dr Mohammad Abdul Momen on Tuesday affirmed that British MP Tulip Siddiq must face legal proceedings in Bangladesh as a Bangladeshi citizen, saying the Commission has documentary proof of her citizenship.

“Tulip, the daughter of Sheikh Rehana and niece of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, holds Bangladeshi citizenship. We have her National Identity Card (NID), a valid Tax Identification Number (TIN), and income tax return documents submitted to the National Board of Revenue (NBR) in Bangladesh,” the ACC chief told reporters at a press briefing at the ACC headquarters in Segunbagicha.

“If any allegations arise against a Bangladeshi citizen, it is our legal responsibility to address them under Bangladeshi law,” he added. “This case will be handled in Bangladesh, not in the UK. We believe Tulip respects the law and expect her to face the legal process accordingly.”

Dr Momen revealed that the ACC received a letter from Tulip’s lawyer, the content of which has already circulated in the media. He questioned the logic behind the letter’s implication that the ACC’s actions could interfere in UK politics. “Is Tulip’s case so serious that it could destabilise the British political system?” he asked. “That seems like an exaggerated and amusing claim.”

Drawing a comparison from his personal experience, Dr Momen said, “If I had committed a crime in London and returned to Bangladesh, and the UK filed a case against me, would their courts and law enforcement come here to prosecute me? Obviously not. I would be expected to go and face justice in the UK. The same standard applies here.”

The ACC Chairman further clarified that Tulip is one of several individuals named in ACC cases. “This is neither a political case nor one aimed at defaming anyone,” he said. “It’s being treated like any other case based on documentary evidence. The Commission is currently handling many other cases that are far more complex.”

Regarding the claim that the ACC didn’t respond to Tulip’s three letters, Dr Momen explained: “We made it clear from the beginning that legal procedures must be followed. That means appearing in person or through legal representation. She is aware of this. Correspondence cannot replace legal compliance.”

Addressing the potential for Tulip to be brought back to Bangladesh, he said, “If she fails to appear in court despite a summons or warrant, she will be treated as a fugitive. In such cases, standard procedures, including Interpol cooperation, can be initiated. Interpol doesn’t arrest anyone directly but works through national law enforcement.”

He reiterated that three cases have been filed against Tulip Siddiq and a fourth is under investigation. “All our actions are based on evidence and proper documentation,” he said. “There’s no political motive here. The rules apply equally to all.”