World

WHO regional chief Kasai ousted

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The World Health Organization has terminated the contract of its powerful Western Pacific regional director Takeshi Kasai following staff accusations of abusive and racist behaviour, a diplomatic source said on Wednesday.

The WHO executive board called a two-day, closed-door special session at its Geneva headquarters to discuss the case of Japanese doctor Kasai, who was suspended after allegations first surfaced in January 2022.

“The regional director’s appointment has been terminated”, the source said.

A WHO letter said the decision was made “after careful consideration”.