Naveed resigns as PFF vice-president over differences

KARACHI: Syed Ashfaq Hussain Shah-led Pakistan Football Federation’s (PFF) vice-president Sardar Naveed Haider Khan has resigned from all the PFF official posts after developing differences with his federation over the commercial league which the PFF is going to hold by the end of this year.

The message from Naveed to this correspondent said that he has tendered his resignations from all his personal association with the Ashfaq Shah-led PFF. He has resigned as vice-president PFF, president Punjab Football Association (PFA), member PFF Congress and member PFF ExCo, the message said.

Naveed wanted the PFF to seek approval from the Congress before going for a deal with a company for the commercial league. “It’s time to say goodbye,” Naveed said in a Whatsapp message. “I cannot make wrong decisions. League in Karachi is illegal and I cannot be part of an illegal activity,” Naveed said.

“Though I have resigned from all official positions in the PFF but my love for football and association with the game and it’s management will always continue,” he said.

“Time has come to encourage and welcome young and fresh minds in the PFF. Over the years I have been blessed by Allah who gave me this opportunity. I will always remain humble and grateful. During this long journey I have made great friends and associates who have always been a source of inspiration and stood by me through thick and thin. I am truly grateful,” said Naveed, who also served as PFF Director Marketing in the era of Faisal Saleh Hayat as PFF chief.

“I want to thank Ashfaq Hussain and Malik Amir Dogar for their trust and confidence. I wish them wisdom and best wishes. I will continue my association and regular contact with all my friends and colleagues in the football family. Our young and enthusiastic team at the PFF led by Secretary General Naveed Akram, Associate Secretary Sohaib Hassan and Director Competition Omar Zia deserve all the appreciation for their positive contributions and great work. My best wishes and pray for our players, coaches, referees, officials and staff,” Naved said. Hopefully soon the international suspension and isolation of PFF will end,” he said.

Meanwhile, the PFF chief Ashfaq Hussain Shah told ‘The News’ on Tuesday that they have received Naveed’s resignation. “Yes we have received Naveed’s resignation. We cannot force anybody. This is his personal decision and we respect it,” he said.

“He is an intelligent person and has rendered meritorious services for football development. We want to develop football and this is our only goal. Individuals come and go but football should remain,” Ashfaq added.