Zero tolerance for corruption in health sector: Minister

Newly appointed Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain on Wednesday declared an uncompromising stance against corruption, saying his foremost priority is to cleanse the health ministry of irregularities and restore public confidence in the sector.

Speaking to officials at the Bangladesh Secretariat on his first working day in office, the minister said corruption and undue influence would have no place under his leadership.

He vowed to dismantle any existing syndicates within the ministry and emphasised that no decisions would be made under external pressure.

“Corruption will not be tolerated in the ministry. I have no personal greed or vested interest. My only goal is to serve the people,” he said, adding that establishing transparency and accountability would guide his actions.

Addressing operational challenges, the minister acknowledged that manpower shortages remain a concern in the health sector. He said discussions would be held with the Prime Minister to determine appropriate steps if additional recruitment or structural adjustments are required.

The minister also announced immediate administrative measures to improve discipline in public healthcare institutions.

Within the next month, he said, punctual attendance of doctors will be strictly enforced.

“If office hours begin at 9am, doctors cannot arrive at noon,” he remarked firmly. Surprise inspections will begin within seven days, and necessary action will be taken against those who fail to comply with duty schedules.

Highlighting the broader vision for reform, Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain stressed the need to enhance service quality so that patients feel confident seeking treatment at home rather than abroad.

He noted that a lack of trust in domestic healthcare has driven many citizens to pursue medical care overseas. Raising standards, he said, is essential to reversing that trend.

In addition to maximising existing facilities, the government plans to introduce new frameworks to expand access to healthcare, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

Earlier in the day, Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain and State Minister MA Muhit exchanged greetings with ministry officials.

The minister later visited various departments to familiarise himself with ongoing activities.

Secretary to the Health Ministry Saidur Rahman and other senior officials were also present at that time.