Mubasher Lucman ends television career

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 13 June 2014

Mubashir Lucman has officially ended his television career following a court ruling that prohibits him from hosting. During his final appearance, he heavily criticized media mogul Mir Shakil-ur-Rehman.

Summary

ISLAMABAD — Popular anchor Mubashir Lucman has announced his exit from television, just days after a court barred him from hosting any program. The announcement came during an appearance on ARY Television’s Khara Such, a show he previously hosted.

Even as a guest, Lucman did not hold back, launching a scathing attack on Jang Group owner Mir Shakil-ur-Rehman, whom he labeled a “traitor” and “defaulter.” He claimed he was prepared to substantiate these accusations in a court of law.

Lucman expressed frustration over what he described as a double standard in media regulation. He pointed out that a “traitor” faced only a 15-day ban, referring to the temporary suspension of Geo TV, owned by the Jang Group, while he himself received an indefinite ban for exposing the same wrongdoing.

In a dramatic turn, Lucman abruptly left the program, telling host Arif Hameed Bhatti that he would be joining forces with politician and Islamic scholar Muhammad Tahirul Qadri. He did not provide details on the nature of this collaboration but suggested it marked a new chapter in his public engagement outside mainstream television.

Observers note that Lucman’s departure comes at a time of heightened scrutiny on media accountability and judicial oversight of television content, raising questions about the future of outspoken anchors in Pakistan’s media landscape.