By Imtiaz Hussain Abro.
The President requests the government to withdraw the directive against the fundraising event for SKMH.
President Arif Alvi likens decision to “cutting off one’s nose to spite the face”
Expressing dissatisfaction with the revocation of a no-objection certificate (NOC) granted to the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Trust for a fundraising event, President Dr. Arif Alvi has urged the interim government to rescind the order, stating that it could adversely impact the construction of the charitable hospital.
On Thursday, the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration withdrew the NOC issued to the organization for hosting a fundraiser at a local hotel in Islamabad on Friday, without providing any reason for the decision.
A senior official from Shaukat Khanum Hospital confirmed the development, mentioning that the Additional District Magistrate of ICT withdrew the NOC previously issued to their trust.
Dr. Alvi, using X (formerly Twitter), expressed his concern about the decision, asserting that halting permission to raise funds could lead to delays in constructing the hospital in the country’s largest port city, putting numerous cancer patients at risk. He likened the move to “cutting off one’s nose to spite the face.”
The president emphasized the substantial deficiency in curative healthcare in Pakistan and stressed the importance of promoting private philanthropy, specifically commending the remarkable efforts of SKMH. He highlighted the global recognition of Shaukat Khanum Cancer Hospital as a cutting-edge facility providing top-tier treatments for underprivileged cancer patients, consistently delivering high-quality care since its establishment.
Referring to personal experiences, Dr. Alvi mentioned his lifelong commitment to preventing and treating oral cancer, while Samina Alvi actively raises awareness about early breast cancer diagnosis to save lives.
He concluded by underscoring the significant cancer burden in Pakistan and the vital role institutions like Shaukat Khanum Hospital play in addressing this healthcare challenge. He added, “Pakistan is seriously lacking in curative healthcare. All private philanthropy, especially this outstanding effort by SKMH, must be encouraged,” further urging the reversal of the cancellation.
 granted to the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Trust){kind=link}