ACC Approves Charge Sheet Against Saima Wazed Over False Information in WHO Job Application

Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has approved the filing of a charge sheet against Saima Wazed Putul, daughter of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, over allegations that she provided false information in her résumé to secure the position of World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for South-East Asia.

ACC Secretary Md. Saidur Rahman Khan disclosed the development at a press briefing on Sunday.

According to sources familiar with the investigation, Wazed stated in her résumé submitted for the WHO position that she had worked as an “Honorary Specialist/Expert” at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), now known as Bangladesh Medical University.

The ACC investigation, however, described the claimed professional experience as false and fabricated.

The commission alleged that Wazed used the information in her résumé to strengthen her eligibility for the senior position at the international organization. The investigation also referred to her roles as chairperson of the National Advisory Committee on Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders and the Suchona Foundation during the period in question.

According to the investigation report, influence was allegedly exerted during the preparation and verification of documents related to the appointment process.

The ACC further alleged that pressure was applied through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to initiate the documentation process without allowing the relevant information to undergo proper verification.

The report stated that the information was subsequently transmitted to WHO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, through Bangladesh’s Permanent Mission and other relevant diplomatic channels and international organizations.

The commission claims that the information submitted during the process contributed to Wazed's appointment to the position.

The ACC further alleged that providing false information in her résumé and abusing her position undermined the country's reputation.

Based on the findings, the commission has approved the filing of a formal charge sheet against her in court. The allegations have not, by themselves, established guilt; the matter will be subject to judicial proceedings.

The case was filed on March 20, 2025, at the ACC’s Dhaka Integrated District Office-1.

Following the completion of its investigation, the commission has now authorized the submission of the charge sheet, marking the next stage in the legal process.

The case concerns allegations of false information and abuse of influence in connection with Wazed’s appointment as WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia.