A civil servant working at the Home Office is currently under investigation regarding social media posts that appear to demonstrate political bias and criticism of government policies, including the Rwanda deportation treaty.

Investigation Details

The investigation centers on Atikur Rahman, a Green Party local election candidate contesting the Tyseley and Hay Mills ward in Birmingham. He has been employed by the Home Office for nearly three years.

Social Media Activity

Concerns were raised over Mr. Rahman’s interactions on platforms like LinkedIn, which seemingly contradict the political neutrality expected of civil servants. The investigation focuses on a pattern of ‘likes’ and reactions to posts expressing strong political opinions.

Records indicate Mr. Rahman reacted with ‘finds this funny’ to a post from Deloitte’s Middle East team expressing sympathy for families affected by loss in Israel. He subsequently ‘liked’ a post condemning the original memorial and explicitly supporting the ‘liberation of all Palestinians’.

Further examination revealed he ‘liked’ a video alleging Israeli interference in the UK and showed support for posts defending the artist Bob Vylan, who faced criticism for chanting ‘death to the IDF’ at Glastonbury.

Policy Conflicts

During his time at the Home Office, Mr. Rahman was involved in overseeing the controversial deportation treaty with Rwanda, a policy strongly opposed by the Green Party. Despite previously expressing enthusiasm for his role, his social media activity reveals a critical stance towards the department’s leadership.

He ‘liked’ a post labeling then-Home Secretary Suella Braverman as ‘evil’ and supported posts criticizing the government’s immigration policies, including increasing the minimum salary threshold for spousal visas.

Political Reactions

Suella Braverman, now with Reform UK, characterized the case as evidence of challenges within the Home Office and potential obstacles a Reform UK government might face. She pledged to reform the Civil Service to ensure it serves the national interest.

Official Response

The Home Office confirmed the investigation, stating that all civil servants are expected to adhere to the Civil Service Code, upholding integrity, honesty, objectivity, and political impartiality. Any breach will be taken seriously.

The Green Party stated it is looking into the matter. Mr. Rahman expressed shock at the possibility of misinterpreting his reactions, asserting they do not constitute endorsements and that he consistently adhered to the Civil Service Code. He has pledged full cooperation with the investigation.