Dhaka (HRNW): Saima Wajed, daughter of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Regional Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) for South-East Asia, has resigned from her position amid investigations into alleged fraud.
According to foreign media reports, Wajed resigned while investigations were underway by the WHO and Bangladeshi authorities. A WHO statement said a committee had recommended her removal from office one day before she submitted her resignation.
Wajed assumed the WHO regional director position in 2024 for a five-year term. She was later reportedly placed on unpaid leave amid the investigations.
Reports said Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission had also raised allegations of fraud and forgery against her. The WHO has reportedly investigated allegations involving financial irregularities related to travel to China, alleged misrepresentation of educational credentials and the acquisition of land in Bangladesh.
Wajed has denied the allegations. In her resignation, she reportedly maintained that she had acquired the land before joining the WHO and was legally entitled to it under Bangladeshi law.
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Disclaimer
This report is based on foreign media reports and the information provided. The allegations against Saima Wajed have not been presented as established facts, and she has denied them. Final legal determinations remain subject to the relevant authorities and courts.
