Renowned actress and television host Iffat Omar has declined the position of Cultural Adviser to Punjab’s Minister for Information and Culture, Azma Bukhari, only days after the appointment was officially announced.
The Punjab government had entrusted Iffat Omar with the significant task of reviving and promoting the province’s cultural heritage and had even allocated her an official office at the Alhamra Cultural Complex in Lahore to begin her work.
However, in a brief and carefully worded statement, Omar said she would not be accepting the post, adding,
“I will share the reason for not accepting the post only with the Chief Minister of Punjab.”
Her sudden decision has sparked discussion across both political and cultural circles, especially considering her influential status in Pakistan’s entertainment industry and her longstanding commitment to progressive social causes.
Iffat Omar, known for her outspoken views and bold commentary on socio-political issues, was widely considered a fitting and visionary choice to help craft Punjab’s evolving cultural landscape.
The lack of a public explanation for her withdrawal has prompted speculation regarding internal disagreements, personal reservations, or potential policy-related concerns, though no further details have been released.
The Punjab government has yet to comment on the development or announce a possible replacement.
