Federations urge PSB to review proposed measures

KARACHI: Pakistan’s sports federations operating under the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) have jointly sent a letter to the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), urging a review of proposed measures they claim threaten their autonomy.

The letter, signed by leaders of 23 federations, expresses serious concern over the PSB’s proposed actions, which they argue could compromise their independence and violate the Olympic Charter.

“It has come to our attention that the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) is in the process of enacting rules and regulations that may significantly affect the autonomy of National Sports Federations (NSFs) affiliated with the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA),” the letter states. “These measures, as we understand, include the creation of an election commission by the PSB, adjudicating internal matters and complaints within NSFs, and the power of the PSB to impose ad-hoc committees on NSFs.”

The federations argue that such actions are in direct violation of the Olympic Charter, which emphasises that governance structures should remain free from external interference. The letter also cites a 2021 communication from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), reaffirming the principle of non-interference in the governance and internal affairs of NSFs.

“The IOC’s note, along with the subsequent letter issued by the Ministry of Inter Provincial Coordination, Government of Pakistan, strongly emphasises that government interference in the governance and internal matters of NSFs constitutes a violation of the principles outlined in the Olympic Charter,” the letter adds.

The federations have called on the PSB to reconsider its proposed measures, aligning them with the Olympic Charter, the statutes of international federations (IFs), and the constitutions of the NSFs. “We respectfully request the PSB to review the proposed measures to ensure they align with the Olympic Charter, IF statutes, Constitution of NSFs, and IFs, and to hold consultations with NSFs to work collaboratively for the promotion and development of sports in Pakistan,” the letter urges.

The federations warned that if their concerns were not addressed, they might take steps to protect their autonomy. “In case our request is not considered by the PSB, we, the NSFs, will be compelled to take protective measures, including disaffiliation from the PSB and IOC, to retain our status as NSFs.”

They concluded the letter with a call for a cooperative approach to ensure the growth of sports in Pakistan. “We trust that the PSB will give due consideration to our request and take necessary steps to uphold the autonomy and independence of NSFs, which are fundamental to the success of Pakistan’s participation in international competitions and the Olympic Movement.” The PSB has yet to respond publicly to the federations’ request.