Controversial WHO Regional Director Placed on Indefinite Leave : Kerry Cullinan / Health Policy Watch

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Summary 

 Saima Wazed, the newly appointed WHO Regional Director for South East Asia (SEARO), has been placed on indefinite leave by WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus as of Friday, July 11, 2025. This decision follows months of mounting pressure after Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) filed charges against her in March for alleged fraud, forgery, and abuse of power. The allegations include misrepresenting her academic credentials during her campaign, particularly claiming to have held a teaching role at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, and improperly using her influence to secure $2.8 million in funding from the Ministry of Social Welfare for the Shuchona Foundation, where she serves as chairperson.

Despite the gravity of the charges, WHO had initially defended Wazed’s appointment. However, the situation escalated when Bangladeshi courts issued a travel ban and an arrest warrant for her, citing credible risk of her evading prosecution. 

Wazed has denied wrongdoing and remains in Bangladesh. WHO has appointed Dr. Catharina Boehme, Assistant Director-General for External Relations and Governance, as the interim Officer in Charge for the SEARO region. Boehme is expected to arrive in New Delhi on July 15. The leadership vacuum in the region—where 11 countries and major health challenges depend on WHO coordination—has raised concerns about the organization’s internal vetting process and credibility.

Quotes

 “Wazed is alleged to have provided false information about her academic record during her campaign for regional director, violating Section 468 … and Section 471 …”
“The ACC also alleges she misrepresented her qualifications by claiming an honorary role at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University …”
“Wazed is also accused of having misused her power and influence to collect about $2.8 million … for the Shuchona Foundation.” 

 “The WHO Director-General has now placed Wazed on leave, and appointed Dr Catharina Boehme … as Officer in Charge for SEARO.”