THOUGH the office-bearers of Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Federation (PBSF) have returned unopposed for another four years (2020-2024), sources believe some fireworks are in store in the annual general meeting on Dec 22.
The outgoing president Munawwar Hussain Shaikh was succeeded by Jawaid Karim at the helm of affairs.
Munawwar, who had served as president for one term (2016-2020) has one more term left as per PSB sports policy.
“I’d refused to compromise on principles and prefer not to opt rather than taking dictation, and working as dummy president,” Munawwar told Dawn.
Earlier, Munawwar had served as secretary for eight years.
Pakistani cueists captured 34 medals — 9-8-17 — during his tenure as president.
It may be mentioned that the last PBSF polls that were held on Dec 28, 2016 in the city, had gone into the annals of the game as two panels contested them for the first time contrary to the past practices.
One panel was backed by former president and the incumbent honorary life chairman Ali Asghar Valika and the other by Sarwar Siddiqui, Shahnawaz Khan and Cyrus Kanga — all former officials of PBSF who understand the baize game.
A total of 176 votes were cast out of Electoral College of 241. Munawar garnered 108 and his rival 66 while two votes were declared invalid.
Since the last elections, a number of longtime friends have turned foes.
History shows that almost all the officials who are connected with the game are pupils of the former PBSF chief Asghar Valika but some of them think otherwise.
In recognition of his services to the sport, the general body offered Valika to become honorary life chairman which he accepted.
“It was an honour bestowed on me by the general body,” he told Dawn.
Valika regretted that couple of people had approached him recently and asked to vacate the position. “I told them that it was the prerogative of general body which is the supreme body,” he added.
Alamgir Shaikh, who had succeeded Valika in 2008 bade adieu in 2016 but after the elections jumped in the bus as passenger (co-chairman) allegedly by maneuvering to get the nod from the managing committee.
Neither any amendment was made in the constitution nor was it put up before general body for approval.
The PSB sports policy doesn’t allow any such post with all powers.
Sources alleged that by doing so the PSB is promoting corrupt practices and their officials are hands in gloves with some national federations.
Sources believe that a similar situation may arise again that has already divided the people. Munawwar has set a precedent by making room for Jawaid gracefully and sent a message loud and clear that no body is invincible.
Squash supremo Jahangir Khan remained invincible for five-and-a-half years winning 555 matches in-a-rowbut his winning streak ended when he lost to Ross Norman.
Published in Dawn, December 19th, 2020