PSB Orders New Elections for Athletics Federation – Full Details, Background, Controversy & What Happens Next
The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has officially ordered fresh elections for the Athletics Federation of Pakistan (AFP), marking a major turning point in the ongoing governance crisis within Pakistan’s athletics community. This decision has once again pushed the federation into controversy, especially after earlier disputes involving Olympian Arshad Nadeem and his coach Salman Butt. The new PSB directive aims to restore transparency, legality, and fairness in the AFP’s leadership structure — something many athletes and officials have been demanding for months.
In this detailed and easy-to-understand article, we break down what happened, why PSB intervened, what the allegations are, and how these new elections may shape the future of athletics in Pakistan.
Why PSB Ordered New Elections for the Athletics Federation of Pakistan
According to official reports, the PSB received a formal complaint from Tariq Sidhu, the president of the National Association of Athletics Technical Officials (NAATO). Sidhu alleged that the AFP violated its own constitution, as well as national sports regulations, during the general council meeting held on December 31, 2024.
During that meeting:
- Wajahat Hussain Sahi was elected as President
- Shahida Khanum was appointed Senior Vice President
- Humaira Mehmood Khan became Vice President
However, the complainant claims:
- No proper election was held
- No ballots were cast
- Notices were not issued
- Meeting minutes were not shared
- Election protocols were ignored
These points form the core reason behind PSB’s decision.
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Allegations: What Did the Athletics Federation Do Wrong?
The complaint accused the AFP leadership of:
1. Bypassing Election Procedure
The federation allegedly “selected” office-bearers instead of electing them.
2. Violating PSB Constitution (2022)
PSB’s updated constitution clearly requires transparent elections with due notice.
3. Breaking National Sports Governance Code
This code ensures fair elections, internal accountability, and athlete representation.
4. Hiding Meeting Details
Minutes were reportedly not circulated, creating doubts about the transparency of the process.
5. Ignoring Membership Participation
Many voting members of AFP claim they were neither invited nor informed.
Because of these allegations, PSB had enough grounds to intervene.
PSB Adjudicator’s Decision
After reviewing the complaint and all supporting documents, the PSB Adjudicator issued a clear order:
“Conduct fresh, transparent and lawful elections.”
Until the new elections are held:
- The current office-bearers can only perform routine administrative tasks
- They cannot make financial decisions
- They cannot make policy decisions
- They cannot enforce disciplinary actions
- They cannot make team selections for international events
This means AFP’s current leadership is effectively frozen until proper elections take place.
Why This Matters for Pakistan’s Athletics Scene
Pakistan’s athletics governance has been unstable for years, but the situation escalated recently due to disputes involving Olympic athlete Arshad Nadeem. His coach, Salman Butt, raised multiple concerns about federation policies and athlete treatment.
This new political turmoil will directly impact:
- International tournament preparations
- National athletes’ training programs
- Selection of teams for Asian events
- Funding and development plans
- Pakistan’s reputation in global athletics circles
With major competitions ahead, including preparations for 2026 and 2027 events, the AFP needs stability urgently.
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How Fresh Elections Can Change the Federation’s Future
If done properly, the upcoming elections can help:
1. Restore Athlete Trust
Athletes and coaches lost confidence due to internal politics. Transparent elections may rebuild trust.
2. Bring New Leadership
A democratic process may allow new, experienced, and credible leaders to emerge.
3. Improve Governance
Proper elections ensure accountability, transparency, and professionalism.
4. Reduce Political Interference
Clear electoral rules can limit personal power groups within the federation.
5. Strengthen International Standing
World Athletics and international bodies prefer federations with stable governance.
What Happens If AFP Does Not Comply?
If the federation ignores PSB’s instructions:
- PSB may suspend AFP’s recognition
- Funding may be blocked
- International participation may be affected
- Government support may be withdrawn
- Athletes may suffer the consequences
Therefore, AFP must comply with the directives for the sake of Pakistan’s sporting reputation.
Past Conflicts That Led to This Situation
This is not the first time AFP has faced scrutiny. Over the past few years:
- Athletes complained about mismanagement
- Coaches reported favoritism
- Elections were questioned for lack of transparency
- Training camps were poorly managed
- International planning was inconsistent
The latest complaint is seen as the final trigger that forced PSB to intervene.
Impact on Athletes Like Arshad Nadeem
Arshad Nadeem is Pakistan’s biggest athletics star, known for his javelin throw achievements. His performance has already been affected by disputes, including issues with his coach and training facilities.
The federation’s instability can:
- Delay training programs
- Affect international competition schedules
- Impact sponsorship opportunities
- Create uncertainty around coaching appointments
Athletes need a stable, supportive environment — not administrative fights.
What Will the New Elections Look Like? Expected Procedure
Based on PSB rules, the expected election procedure includes:
1. Issuance of Official Notice
AFP must inform all eligible members well in advance.
2. Formation of an Election Committee
PSB may supervise to ensure transparency.
3. Nomination Process
Candidates must submit forms and meet legal requirements.
4. Voting Day
Ballot boxes, voter verification, and neutral observers.
5. Announcement of Results
Results must be shared publicly, with proper documentation.
If everything goes smoothly, elections will be completed within weeks.
Challenges Ahead for AFP
Even with new elections, AFP faces long-term issues:
- Lack of resources
- Limited training facilities
- Poor coordination with PSB
- Lack of high-performance coaching
- Financial constraints
- Weak talent identification programs
Elections alone will not solve everything — Pakistan Athletics needs complete reform.
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Public Reaction to PSB’s Decision
Reactions have been mixed:
Positive Responses
- Many athletes welcomed the decision
- Coaches support fair elections
- Sports analysts call it “necessary for stability”
Concerns
- Some fear elections may create more internal fights
- Others say politics may still influence the federation
Overall, the sports community hopes this step leads to genuine improvements.
Conclusion: PSB Orders New Elections for Athletics Federation:
The PSB’s decision to order fresh elections for the Athletics Federation of Pakistan marks a major step toward transparency, fairness, and accountability. With athletes preparing for major future events, the federation must quickly resolve internal disputes and focus on performance rather than politics.
These new elections could become a historic turning point — restoring trust, improving governance, and helping Pakistan achieve international success in athletics once again.
FAQs About PSB Ordering New Elections for Athletics Federation
1. Why did PSB order new elections for the Athletics Federation?
Because AFP allegedly violated election procedures and ignored constitutional rules during the 2024 meeting.
2. Which positions will be re-elected?
President, Senior Vice President, and Vice President — the three disputed positions.
3. Can the current office-bearers continue working?
They can only perform routine administrative tasks, not policy or financial decisions.
4. What does this mean for athletes preparing for competitions?
It creates temporary uncertainty but may lead to better governance in the long run.
5. Who filed the complaint against the AFP?
Tariq Sidhu, the president of NAATO.
