New Delhi: The World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed that Saima Wazed, Regional Director for the South-East Asia Region (SEARO) and daughter of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has been placed on leave amidst mounting allegations of corruption, forgery, and abuse of power.

In a statement to ANI, WHO responded: “WHO’s Regional Director, SEARO, Saima Wazed, is currently on leave.” The organisation declined to elaborate further, stating, “We have no further comment at this time.”

During her absence, Dr Catharina Boehme has been appointed as Officer-in-Charge and is expected to arrive at the WHO SEARO office in New Delhi on July 15.

The development follows reports that Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission has filed multiple cases against Wazed, accusing her of fraud, forgery, and the misuse of official power.

Welcoming WHO’s move, Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam wrote in a Facebook post:

“We welcome the WHO’s reported decision to place Saima Wazed on indefinite leave amid ongoing investigations into serious allegations of fraud, forgery and abuse of power.”

He added, “We firmly believe that a permanent resolution is necessary—one that removes Ms. Wazed from her position, revokes all associated privileges and restores integrity to this prestigious role and the credibility of the UN system as a whole.”

Alam further stated that the people of Bangladesh and the global public are encouraged by this initial step toward transparency and accountability.

Saima Wazed, a licensed school psychologist and autism advocate, was controversially appointed WHO SEARO chief in 2023, with backing from Bangladesh's government. Her appointment drew criticism from health experts and diplomats who questioned her qualifications and the political nature of the selection process.

The WHO has not yet confirmed whether Wazed’s leave is temporary or indefinite, nor has it clarified if internal disciplinary procedures are underway.

The investigation continues as calls for greater transparency and reform within the United Nations’ hiring and oversight mechanisms grow louder.
(With ANI inputs)