Details of the decision to cover Abla Kamel's medical treatment at the state's expense by presidential decree
In a humanitarian gesture reflecting the Egyptian state's appreciation for its artistic icons, government authorities in Egypt have adopted a decree issued by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to provide medical treatment for the renowned actress Abla Kamel at the state's expense. This decision is the culmination of the political leadership's ongoing directives to provide comprehensive care for prominent artists and creative figures who have enriched cultural life in Egypt and the Arab world.
In detailing the decision, Dr. Ashraf Zaki, head of the Actors Syndicate, explained that the presidential directive is not limited to an individual case, but falls under a broader umbrella that includes the care of senior artists, and aims to provide them with all means of treatment and necessary medical care, based on the state’s belief in the value of these creative people as an integral part of Egypt’s soft power.
Statement from the Actors' Syndicate
The Actors Syndicate quickly issued an official statement expressing its appreciation for this step. The statement read: “The Actors Syndicate extends its sincere thanks and deep gratitude to His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, in appreciation of his generous directives to care for senior artists with a rich artistic history, and for the state to undertake their treatment and provide them with full support, in recognition of what they have offered in terms of creativity and enrichment of the Egyptian and Arab conscience over the decades.”.
Abla Kamel... an icon of spontaneity in Arabic drama
Actress Abla Kamel is considered one of the most important pillars of Egyptian drama over the past three decades. She was distinguished by her spontaneous and sincere performance, which made her reign supreme in the hearts of audiences. Abla Kamel presented iconic characters that are still etched in the memory of the Arab viewer, starting with the role of "Fatima Koshary" in the timeless series "I Will Not Live in My Father's Robe," to her distinguished cinematic roles in "El-Limby" and "My Aunt France," and ending with the epic "Silsal El-Dam" in which she presented a model of the strong Upper Egyptian woman.
Despite her withdrawal from the limelight and media appearances in recent years, her health condition has always been a matter of public interest, reflecting the great status that the "Queen of Spontaneity" holds in the popular consciousness.
The state and the promotion of soft power
This decision is not unprecedented; rather, it falls within a broader trend recently adopted by the Egyptian state to enhance social protection for artists. The past period has witnessed similar presidential interventions to provide medical treatment for a number of prominent artists who have faced health crises. This underscores the state's strategy of preserving and honoring its cultural icons, not only with awards and accolades, but also by providing them with a dignified life and healthcare befitting their illustrious careers.
