LAHORE: Khalid Mahmood and retired Lt Col Mohammad Nasir Ijaz Tung have been re-elected as president and secretary general of the Pakistan Boxing Federation (PBF) for the 2025-29 term.

The PBF’s General Council, which convened at the Olympic House on Saturday, also made the significant decision to disaffiliate from the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB). This move follows recent amendments to the PSB’s constitution, which were deemed to interfere with the federation’s autonomy.

According to a PBF press release, the General Council approved amendments to the PBF constitution and passed a resolution, endorsed by the National Sports Federations, authorising the PBF leadership — the chairperson, president, and secretary general — to take the necessary steps to sever ties with the PSB. This resolution was in line with the recommendations made by the PBF’s Executive Committee on November 24.

The General Council also received an update on the PBF’s international affiliations. It was highlighted that the PBF, a founding member, has recently been inducted into the Asian Boxing, which is officially recognised by World Boxing.

The federation has plans to gradually withdraw from all other affiliations to maintain its participation in the Olympic Boxing program.

In another key development, Mrs. Ishrat Ashraf was elected as the chairperson of the PBF.

It is worth noting that the PSB had appointed an election commissioner to oversee elections for all national sports federations and address any complaints regarding candidates. However, the national sports federations, under the PSB’s umbrella, have expressed concern that such actions could lead to international sanctions against Pakistan, as they violate the International Olympic Committee’s charter. Despite this, the PSB proceeded with the amendments, disregarding the federations’ objections.

Published in Dawn, December 15th, 2024