British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s decision not to meet with Nobel Laureate and Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has drawn strong criticism from Bangladeshi journalist Ahsan Kamrul, who termed the move “undignified and politically motivated.”
Speaking to reporters, Kamrul commented, “The British monarch—whom the Prime Minister is answerable to—is awarding Professor Yunus with a prestigious honour. Yet the Prime Minister, who is often seen enjoying samosas with party workers, refuses to meet him. That reeks of political cowardice.”
Drawing attention to recent allegations surrounding Labour MP Tulip Siddiq, the journalist hinted at a “possible private connection” between Siddiq and Starmer. “World history tells us monarchs have given up thrones for women. Is it too much to think that a modern-day Prime Minister might commit a small breach of diplomatic courtesy for a similar reason?” Kamrul said, suggesting Starmer may have avoided the meeting to shield himself or his party from Tulip Siddiq’s alleged corruption scandal.
Dr Yunus is currently in London as part of a high-level diplomatic mission aimed at recovering billions of dollars reportedly laundered out of Bangladesh during the previous Awami League regime. His visit is also intended to strengthen cooperation with the UK on anti-corruption investigations.
Prime Minister Starmer has reportedly declined to meet Dr Yunus during the visit, a decision some observers believe may be linked to domestic political concerns, particularly within the Labour Party.
Earlier this year, Tulip Siddiq—who is also the niece of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina—stepped down from her role as City Minister following allegations of financial ties to figures associated with the former Awami League government. While she has denied the allegations, her resignation has remained a point of controversy in British-Bangladeshi political circles.
Siddiq has since expressed a desire to meet with Professor Yunus, stating her intent to “clear up misunderstandings” surrounding recent investigations by Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission. However, Yunus reportedly declined, stating, “This is purely a matter of legal proceedings. There is no scope for personal involvement.”
Observers have noted that Starmer’s refusal to meet Dr Yunus may be perceived as “political revenge” on behalf of his former minister. Journalist Kamrul’s remarks appear in this context, sharply criticising both the British Prime Minister and the former junior minister.
Dr Yunus is scheduled to receive the ‘King Charles Harmony Award’ today at a ceremony at St James’s Palace, where King Charles III will personally present the honour.
