The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has issued a formal clarification regarding the club registration and election process of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF). This comes in response to recent media reports that suggested the PHF was proceeding with the election process unilaterally. The PSB referred to its earlier directive from November 26, which outlined the framework for PHF elections. This framework includes the formation of an independent Election Commission and scrutiny of clubs through a duly notified Scrutiny Committee under PSB supervision.
The PSB stated that certain announcements made by the PHF, such as initiating an online club registration portal and forming a PHF-controlled scrutiny process, are not in line with the PSB’s directives. The board emphasized that the Election Commission should consist of three members, with two nominated by the PSB and one by the PHF. Additionally, the scrutiny of clubs must be conducted by a committee with representation from the PSB, PHF, provincial associations, and relevant provincial/district sports authorities.
The PSB clarified that the PHF is not authorized to unilaterally conduct any part of the election process, including club registration or elections, without the PSB’s prior approval and compliance with Article 17 of the PSB Constitution. The PHF has been advised to halt all related processes and align any steps with the PSB’s instructions and the Standing Committee’s mandate.
The PHF has been given seven days to submit a written clarification detailing compliance with the PSB’s directives for further examination. This move by the PSB aims to ensure that the election process is conducted fairly and transparently, with the involvement of all relevant stakeholders. The PSB’s directives are intended to prevent any potential irregularities or disputes that may arise during the election process.
Overall, the PSB’s clarification highlights the importance of adhering to established protocols and procedures in the conduct of elections and club registration. By emphasizing the need for cooperation and compliance, the PSB is working to ensure that the PHF’s election process is conducted in a manner that is fair, transparent, and accountable to all stakeholders. The outcome of this process will be crucial in determining the future of hockey in Pakistan and the legitimacy of the PHF’s leadership.