The Fall of Zahi Hawass: A Controversial Figure in Egyptian Archaeology
Removal from the Ministry of Antiquities
Zahi Hawass, the high-profile archaeologist who led Egypt’s antiquities for nearly a decade, was abruptly removed from his position as Minister of Antiquities in July 2011. The decision came as part of a wider overhaul of the country’s cabinet following the Egyptian Revolution.
Accusations and Protests
Hawass’s dismissal was met with mixed reactions. While he was widely respected internationally, he faced growing criticism within Egypt. Young archaeologists and protesters accused him of corruption, shoddy science, and close ties to the deposed President Hosni Mubarak.
Nora Shalaby, a young Egyptian archaeologist who was active in the revolution, summed up the sentiment against Hawass: “He was the Mubarak of antiquities.”
Temporary Reinstatement
Following his removal, Hawass’s status remained uncertain for several days. The appointment of a successor, Abdel Fatta El Banna, was withdrawn due to protests from ministry employees who questioned El Banna’s archaeological credentials.
Hawass confirmed via email that he had been reinstated, but it was unclear for how long.
Possible Downgrading of the Ministry of Antiquities
The Ministry of Antiquities, created by Mubarak as part of an effort to salvage his government, may be downgraded from a cabinet-level agency. This possibility has raised concerns among foreign archaeologists who worry about the future of Egypt’s cultural heritage.
Sarah Parcak, an Egyptologist at the University of Alabama in Birmingham, expressed her concerns about the potential downgrading:
“I’m very concerned about the antiquities,” said Parcak. “And these monuments are the lifeblood of the Egyptian economy.”
Hawass’s Controversial Career
Hawass rose to prominence in the 1980s after obtaining a PhD in archaeology from the University of Pennsylvania. He became the chief antiquities inspector at the Giza Plateau, home to the iconic pyramids. In 2002, he was appointed head of the Supreme Council of Antiquities.
During his tenure, Hawass made headlines by demanding the return of iconic antiquities from foreign museums, including the Rosetta Stone from the British Museum and the Nefertiti bust from the Neues Museum in Berlin. He also facilitated access to Egyptian artifacts for foreign exhibitions, generating significant revenue for the Egyptian government.
However, Hawass also faced criticism for his cavalier treatment of artifacts in his television appearances, particularly in the reality show “Chasing Mummies.” Egyptians also questioned the transparency of his financial dealings related to his book tours, lectures, and television appearances.
International Recognition and Tourism Promotion
Despite the controversies, Hawass remained a respected figure internationally. He played a key role in promoting tourism to Egypt, embarking on a tour to the United States in June 2011 to encourage foreign visitors to return.
Hawass’s Legacy and the Future of Egyptian Archaeology
The removal of Zahi Hawass marked a significant moment in Egyptian archaeology. His legacy remains a complex one, marked by both achievements and controversies.
The future of Egyptian archaeology remains uncertain as the country grapples with political and economic challenges. The potential downgrading of the Ministry of Antiquities and the ongoing need for protection and preservation of archaeological sites raise concerns about the preservation of Egypt’s rich cultural heritage.
