Popular Pakistani anchor and crime reporter Iqrar ul Hassan has announced his resignation from ARY Network after 21 years with the channel. He shared the news through an emotional Instagram video, citing his commitment to his political party Awam Raah Tehreek as the reason behind his decision to leave broadcasting.
The announcement has shocked fans and media industry followers across Pakistan, sparking a strong reaction on social media.
An Emotional Farewell After Two Decades
In his Instagram video, Iqrar ul Hassan described his departure as one of the hardest decisions of his life. He said he submitted his resignation with a heavy heart to ARY owner Salman Iqbal. He credited ARY for giving him fame, opportunities, and respect throughout his career.
Iqrar began his journey with ARY in 2005 after attending an open audition with no references or connections. Over the next 21 years, he worked as a news anchor, host, and investigative reporter. He covered some of the most significant moments in Pakistan’s recent history. These include Pervez Musharraf’s martial law, Imran Khan’s rise to power, the Lawyers’ Movement, and various protests across the country.
Beyond Pakistan, he traveled to Burma, Syria, and Turkey to report on earthquakes and wars. He also addressed parliament and delivered lectures at the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. His show Sar-e-Aam became one of the most watched investigative programs in Pakistani television history.
Iqrar also remembered his late friend Raja Matloob during the farewell video. He said Raja would have been unhappy with this decision and that they would have had long discussions about it.
Why He Chose Politics Over Broadcasting
Iqrar ul Hassan explained that he faced a clear choice between ARY Network and his political party Awam Raah Tehreek. He said he could not continue both simultaneously. Therefore, he chose to sacrifice his broadcasting career for what he described as the future of the upcoming generation.
He founded Awam Raah Tehreek as part of his move into politics. His decision reflects a growing trend of Pakistani media personalities transitioning into the political arena in recent years.
Public reaction to the resignation has been divided. Many fans expressed sadness over losing one of Pakistani television’s most recognizable faces. However, a significant portion of social media users responded with criticism and concern.
Some users called the resignation a downfall for Iqrar. Others warned him about the challenges and pitfalls of Pakistani politics. Several followers questioned whether leaving a successful 21 year media career for politics was a wise move.
Nevertheless, supporters praised his courage in making such a bold and life changing decision. They wished him well in his new political journey and hoped Awam Raah Tehreek would bring positive change.
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Iqrar ul Hassan’s departure marks the end of a remarkable era at ARY Network. His contributions to Pakistani journalism and television remain significant regardless of what comes next in his career.
