ISLAMABAD – Federal Information Minister Chaudhry Fawad Hussain said on Friday that a medical board has been formed to decide over veteran actor and comedian Umer Sharif’s request for treatment abroad.
The minister stated this after visiting the severely ill Sharif at a hospital after he was directed by Prime Minister Imran Khan.
He said that the board comprises Special Assistant to PM on Health Dr. Faisal Sultan and Dr. Yawar, who will handle the matter.
He said that facilities for cardiac treatment are available in Pakistan but the decision about sending Sharif abroad will be taken by the board.
Earlier, Umer Sharif, who has been suffering from an undisclosed ailment, sought the government’s assistance in getting treatment overseas in a video made for a local news outlet. On Thursday night, the video aired. According to Shahbaz Gill, the Prime Minister of Pakistan’s spokesman, the PM has taken note of Sharif’s plea.
In a pre-recorded statement, the renowned comedian said that he does not have treatment options for his illness in Pakistan and that he thinks Prime Minister Imran Khan would help him.
Sharif, who looked visibly unwell, said, “I have been told by my doctors that, for better treatment, I will have to go abroad. I believe I helped Imran Khan, as much as I could, with Shaukat Khanum Memorial Hospital.”
The comedian added, “Doctors are telling me I can get the best treatment in America. I, Umer Sharif, am now addressing the Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan Sahab. Whenever you have called me for anything, I have always been there for you, which is why I believe that you will also be there for me.”
Waseem Badami, the host, emphasized how Sharif needs help with technical issues that have hampered travel because of Covid-19. He reaffirmed that Sharif did not need government assistance and that the comedian was self-sufficient.
Sharif’s physicians, according to Badami, have advised him to go to the United States, Germany, or Saudi Arabia within the next 15 to 20 days, for which the comic will need government assistance.
The video message was followed by a discussion between the presenter and Gill, who expressed sorrow after seeing Sharif in such a condition and assured the comedian that all efforts would be taken to ensure he received the care he needs.
The PM’s aide shared, “The video filled my heart with sorrow because Umer Sharif has always made us laugh and we’ve always seen him laughing, chipper, and spreading happiness. I pray that God gives him health.”
Gill went on to say that he will personally inform the premier about Sharif’s health.
