Karachi – In a significant development, the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has come under scrutiny by sports federations, including 23 national bodies under the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA). These federations expressed concerns over PSB’s recent proposals, which they believe threaten their autonomy and independence, key principles upheld by the Olympic Charter. The federations argue that the PSB’s actions, including the creation of an election commission and the imposition of ad-hoc committees, would breach international regulations and compromise their ability to manage internal matters freely.
In response to the proposed changes, the federations have sent a joint letter to the PSB, urging a revision of the plans. The letter stresses that these actions could violate established norms within the Olympic movement and international federations. Furthermore, the federations reminded the PSB of past communications from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination, which emphasized the need to avoid government interference in the internal affairs of sports federations.
The federations have warned that, unless their concerns are addressed, they may be forced to take drastic measures to preserve their independence. This could include disaffiliation from both the PSB and the IOC. In addition, during a recent POA General Council meeting, a resolution was passed to reaffirm the federations’ commitment to the principles of autonomy. The resolution stressed that any external interference could jeopardize the federations’ international affiliations and recognition.
The federations have called on the PSB to engage in dialogue to align its measures with international standards, ensuring the continued development of sports in Pakistan without compromising the federations’ independence.
