Dhaka, Sep 10 (V7N)- Saima Wazed has formally resigned from her position as Regional Director for South-East Asia at the World Health Organization (WHO), amid investigations into allegations of financial irregularities and inaccurate information concerning her educational credentials.

International news agency Reuters reported that Wazed submitted her resignation to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Wednesday, September 9.

Wazed was elected by WHO member states in November 2023 and began her five-year term as Regional Director in February 2024. Following the fall of the Awami League government during Bangladesh’s 2024 mass uprising, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) launched investigations into allegations involving Sheikh Hasina and members of her family.

The WHO subsequently placed Wazed on unpaid leave in July 2025.

According to Reuters, the WHO had been examining allegations concerning financial irregularities linked to a trip to China, incorrect information about her academic qualifications and the alleged illegal acquisition of a plot of land in Bangladesh.

Wazed has denied the allegations through her lawyers. Regarding the China trip, she reportedly said the discrepancy involving $901 was an administrative error made by an assistant. She also maintained that she had previously informed the WHO chief that her doctorate was honorary.

In her resignation letter, Wazed accused the WHO leadership of preventing her from effectively carrying out her responsibilities.

“Since you continue to obstruct me from effectively discharging my duties, I have lost all faith and confidence in the WHO leadership,” she wrote.

She also cited financial difficulties after going nearly a year without receiving remuneration while on unpaid leave.

Sources within the WHO indicated that a process to formally remove Wazed from the position had already been initiated. A new nomination for the post could be announced on October 12, while the election of a new Regional Director is expected to take place on January 24 following the completion of the vetting process.

Wazed’s resignation brings an end to a controversial tenure at the WHO amid ongoing scrutiny over the allegations against her.

END/SMA/AJ