WHO Suspends Regional Director Saima Wajed, Daughter of Former Bangladesh PM, Amid Corruption Allegations

In a significant move, the World Health Organization (WHO) has placed Saima Wajed, Regional Director for Southeast Asia and daughter of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed, on indefinite leave following serious corruption allegations.

According to foreign media reports, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom informed staff via email on July 11 about Saima Wajed’s suspension. Dr. Katharina Boehme, WHO’s Assistant Director-General, has been assigned to temporarily oversee the Southeast Asia Regional Office (SEARO).

Earlier this year, Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) filed a case against Saima Wajed, questioning the authenticity of her educational credentials submitted for the senior WHO position. The ACC also alleged that she leveraged her mother’s political influence to secure her role at WHO.

Further accusations include claims that Saima Wajed falsely stated holding an honorary position at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, which the university has denied. The ACC has also accused her of participating in large-scale corruption during her mother’s tenure, illegally acquiring nearly \$2.8 million from various banks. These funds were reportedly funneled through the “Suchona Foundation,” an organization she once headed.

The suspension marks a rare disciplinary action by the WHO and highlights increasing scrutiny on accountability and governance within international organizations.