PHFControversy: Associate Secretary Zahir Shah Addresses Press on Congress Outcomes
Musarrat ullah jan
Peshawar, August 19,- In an exclusive interaction with journalists, PHF Associate Secretary Syed Zahir Shah shed light on the outcomes of the recent PHF Congress held on August 19, 2022. Speaking candidly, Shah delved into various issues that emerged during the Congress and provided insights into the ongoing developments within the Pakistan Hockey Federation.
Addressing the gathering, Zahir Shah outlined that the Congress held paramount importance as it intended to address a comprehensive agenda. He highlighted that the law mandated the inclusion of all pertinent matters, ensuring transparency and accountability.
However, Shah expressed concern over apparent deviations from established legal protocols within the current PHF cabinet. He asserted that their actions had strayed from the legal framework, giving rise to a series of complications and controversies.
One of the pivotal matters discussed during the Congress was the election of the Chief of Army Staff. Shah shared that this election took place subsequent to inter-club matches conducted from May 5 to June. This timing aimed to engage the sporting community and ensure a fair selection process.
Remarkably, Shah pointed out the conspicuous absence of the budget presentation during the Congress proceedings. This omission raised eyebrows, prompting queries about the organization’s fiscal management.
Moreover, Zahir Shah acknowledged that the decisions made within the Congress were not effectively communicated to the Cabinet, leading to a lack of consensus and increased tensions.
A significant concern that emerged was the issue related to Sindh Bank accounts, wherein an amount of one crore and eighty lakh rupees was reportedly withdrawn without proper documentation.
Shah emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in financial matters.
On the matter of the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) issuing a letter and suspending the PHF cabinet, Shah clarified that this action was within the legal purview. He explained that the association secretary had assumed undue control over the allocated funds, prompting the PSB’s intervention.
Shah revealed that the Prime Minister had established a committee to address the myriad of issues and engage in discussions with the PSB. Following the issuance of the letter, the PHF cabinet was temporarily suspended, but its operations would continue at the provincial level.
While addressing concerns about fund utilization, Shah noted that the PHF held the right to access funds. In turn, the PSB could monitor and even audit these financial proceedings.
In response to reports of some PHF members resorting to legal action, Shah stressed that the PHF was not solely represented by the secretary and president. He emphasized that the organization consisted of a Congress comprised of 102 members, each holding equal significance.
Reflecting on the past year, Shah lamented the lack of approvals received. He disclosed that a Congress gathering involving 102 members was convened by the PSB, aiming to gauge the current state of affairs within the PHF.
Closing the session, Zahir Shah disclosed that he had previously urged the President to resign in light of the impending challenges. Regrettably, these warnings went unheeded. The current situation, as predicted, now demands immediate attention and resolution.