PHF in turmoil with two presidents

LAHORE: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) finds itself embroiled in a leadership battle, raising questions about the legitimacy of its top post and the stability of its administrative framework.

The recent emergence of two parallel factions, each claiming the presidency, has plunged the federation and the game alike into a state of uncertainty, casting a shadow over the future of hockey in the country.

The rift within the PHF became glaringly apparent as conflicting reports emerged regarding the rightful occupant of the presidency. On one hand, Shehla Raza was purportedly elected as the new president through a meeting held in Karachi, while on the other, Tariq Bugti assumed the mantle following an election in Islamabad. This schism has left stakeholders perplexed.

Shehla Raza’s supporters assert that her election was sanctioned by a faction of the PHF Congress, citing the participation of representatives from Balochistan and Sindh in the Karachi meeting. Tariq Bugti’s faction challenges the validity of Shehla Raza’s presidency, contending that crucial stakeholders such as the Pakistan Olympic Association and the Pakistan Sports Board were not present at the Karachi gathering.

Shehla Raza has declared Bugti’s election as “null and void” due to lack of proper representatives. Bugti, however, claims that Raza’s election involved non-members and aims to create a parallel federation.

The discord within the PHF has raised serious concerns about its ability to effectively govern and promote hockey in Pakistan, particularly at a time when the sport is grappling with myriad challenges and striving for resurgence on the international stage.

Amidst the leadership tussle, both Shehla Raza and Tariq Bugti have outlined their respective agendas for the future of Pakistani hockey. Shehla Raza has embarked on an ambitious plan to revitalise the sport, focusing on initiatives such as national team training camps, modernisation of facilities, and promotion of hockey at the grassroots level. In contrast, Tariq Bugti has pledged to prioritise inclusivity and collaboration within the federation, vowing to engage stakeholders and present a comprehensive development strategy to the government.

This leadership crisis creates a climate of uncertainty and hinders progress in a sport already struggling to regain its past glory. Players are caught in the middle, unsure of whom to follow.

International competitions like the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup loom on the horizon, but preparations are overshadowed by the leadership battle.

As the battle for legitimacy unfolds within the PHF, the fate of Pakistani hockey hangs in the balance. With stakeholders divided and uncertainty looming large, the urgent need for resolution and consensus-building cannot be overstated.

The Prime Minister, who nominates the ad-hoc president, holds the key to resolving this dispute. A clear decision is needed to establish legitimate leadership. Transparency and accountability are crucial for rebuilding trust within the PHF and the sport as a whole.

Only with a unified vision and a focus on player development can Pakistan hockey hope to regain its former standing on the international stage. Pakistan’s hockey fans and athletes deserve better. This leadership crisis demands a swift and transparent resolution to ensure the sport’s continued growth in the country.

A neutral body could investigate the legitimacy of both claims. A transparent election process, overseen by an impartial authority, could determine the rightful leader.