The World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed that Sheikh Hasina's daughter, Saima Wazed, the Regional Director for the South-East Asia Region, is currently on leave after corruption allegations were raised by Bangladesh’s interim government.

In a response to ANI, WHO stated, "WHO's Regional Director, SEARO, Saima Wazed, is currently on leave."

During this time, Dr Catharina Boehme will take charge of the office. WHO said, "During this period, Dr Catharina Boehme is serving as Officer-in-Charge."

The organisation has not shared any additional details regarding the decision. When asked for further comment, WHO said, "We have no further comment at this time."

According to reports, Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission has filed several cases against Saima Wazed. The charges include fraud, forgery, and misuse of power.

Dr Boehme is expected to arrive at the WHO South-East Asia Regional Office in New Delhi on July 15 to take over responsibilities temporarily.

Reacting to WHO’s move, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam posted on Facebook, saying, "We welcome the World Health Organisation's reported decision to place Saima Wazed on indefinite leave amid ongoing investigations into serious allegations of fraud, forgery and abuse of power. We view this as an important first step toward accountability."

He further added, "We firmly believe that a permanent resolution is necessary, one that removes Ms. Wazed from her position, revokes all associated privileges, and restores integrity to this prestigious role and the credibility of the UN system as a whole."

In his closing remarks, he wrote, "The people of Bangladesh and the global public are happy to see the emergence of transparency, honesty, and justice."

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