PSB reaffirms its stance of non-interference in POA elections

LAHORE: The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has reaffirmed its stance of non-interference in the upcoming elections of the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) while emphasising the importance of transparency and adherence to International Olympic Committee (IOC) charter and regulations.

These views were expressed by PSB Director General Yasir Pirzada while speaking at a Sports Journalists Association of Lahore (SJAL) programme here on Friday. Pirzada raised concerns regarding the POA's electoral college, calling for clarity and compliance with the IOC Charter.

He reiterated that the PSB’s role is not to interfere but to ensure transparency in processes that shape Pakistan’s sports governance. Stressing the government’s right to accountability, Pirzada disclosed that federations receiving public funds are now required to provide detailed audit reports. While many have complied, the names of federations failing to meet these requirements will soon be published online, he said.

In a move aimed at bolstering integrity in team selections, Pirzada announced that federations must share merit-based details of their squads before securing No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for international events. Dispelling perceptions of inadequate facilities for athletes, the DG PSB outlined the board’s efforts to identify and nurture talented individuals for international competitions.