Dr. Saima Wazed suspended indefinitely

Nepal Health News, Kathmandu – Dr. Saima Wazed, Regional Director for the South-East Asia Region of the World Health Organization, has been placed on indefinite leave. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus informed member states of this decision via email.

Although Dr. Wazed has been relieved of her duties effective from July 11, the official reason for her suspension has not been publicly disclosed. However, on the same day, Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) filed a case against her involving allegations of fraud, forgery, and abuse of power.

She has faced accusations of misrepresenting her academic qualifications and using undue influence to secure her appointment. Dr. Wazed is also the daughter of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, raising questions about the impartiality of her selection.

In her absence, Dr. Katharina Boehme has been appointed to take on the executive responsibilities and is expected to arrive in New Delhi on July 15.