H. M. Jahangir Alam

The Bangladesh authorities have been making false allegations about me to the media for months, but they have never contacted me directly. More than two weeks ago, my lawyers wrote to them telling them to stop briefing the media with baseless allegations and invited them to put any legitimate questions they have to me promptly. The deadline to respond has expired and the Bangladesh authorities have not replied. Instead, they continue to smear me with false and vexatious claims in the media. I have provided detailed rebuttals of all the allegations they have made through the media, acting in good faith despite the lack of return courtesy. Their lack of response speaks volumes. If the so-called Anti-Corruption Commission in Dhaka have any questions, they know how to contact me. Here in the U.K., we have due process, the rule of law and a tradition of fair play. I would happily respond to any legitimate questions, but I will not be drawn into dirty politics, nor allow their witch-hunt to undermine my work as a British citizen and proud member of the U.K. Parliament.