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The Bangladesh Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has launched an investigation into the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for Southeast Asia, Saima Wazed alias Putul, on allegations of corruption in securing her position.

Saima Wazed was appointed as the regional director in February 2024. However, there are allegations that her mother, ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, abused her power to secure her daughter’s appointment. ACC Deputy Director Akhtarul Islam told The Lancet that an investigation is underway based on these allegations.

ACC allegations

In a letter sent by the ACC, the foreign and health ministries were informed that Putul has been accused of financial misconduct and use of political influence. At the same time, it has been urged to pressure the WHO to remove Saima Wazed.

According to the ACC, Sheikh Hasina has used her power to make her daughter influential and increase her profile in the international arena. As an example, Saima Wazed’s participation in the G-20 Summit in India in 2023 is mentioned.

Controversy over qualifications

According to WHO rules, candidates for the post of regional director must have extensive experience in public health and global health. Saima Wazed has an MSc in clinical psychology and her work focuses mainly on mental health and autism. However, she does not have any formal degree in public health or medicine.

On the other hand, her rival, Shambhu Prasad Acharya of Nepal, has 30 years of experience in WHO and holds a doctorate in public health.

Expert opinion

Mukesh Kapila, a professor at the University of Manchester and former director of WHO, said that the ACC did the right thing by initiating an investigation into the corruption allegations against Saima Wazed. Salim ur Rehman, a former health director of Kashmir, said that leadership skills and training in public health are essential for the post of regional director.

Demand for reform in recruitment process

Former WHO officials have stressed the need for reform in the recruitment process. Nepali public health expert Rita Thapa said that candidates should be required to have basic qualifications in medicine and public health. She also recommended that an independent committee be formed to evaluate candidates and finalize the qualified candidates.

WHO response

WHO spokesman Tarik Jasarevic said that any irregularities in the selection process of a member state should be investigated by the relevant national authorities. However, WHO will not comment on the matter while the investigation is ongoing.

Meanwhile, Saima Wazed did not respond to The Lancet’s request for comment.

Expressed his opinion.