Islamabad, Jan 1: In a bid to enhance Pakistan’s sports governance, the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has mandated all six provincial sports boards to conduct a thorough audit of sports clubs at various administrative levels, including city, tehsil, district, divisional, and provincial tiers. The goal is to ensure the authenticity and operational integrity of national sports federations (NSFs).
Key Developments:
- PSB’s Directive: The scrutiny covers clubs from local to provincial levels, aiming to verify the legitimacy and transparency of sports organizations.
- Tensions with National Sports Bodies: The PSB’s ongoing efforts to assert authority have led to conflicts with the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) and NSFs, continuing since the introduction of the National Sports Policy 2005.
Context and Deadline:
- Foundation of National Sports: Sports clubs are viewed as the core structure of the country’s sports, with associations at various levels playing a crucial role in national governance.
- Deadline for Completion: Provincial sports boards are required to submit their findings by January 25, 2025, highlighting the urgency of the initiative.
Potential Challenges:
- Parallel Bodies: Concerns over the emergence of parallel bodies within sports federations, especially those linked to provincial boards but not to their respective provincial Olympic associations, could lead to internal fragmentation.
Implications for Pakistan’s Sports:
This initiative could lead to significant changes in Pakistan’s sports administration, aiming for greater accountability and legitimacy. However, the continued friction between PSB, POA, and national federations remains a challenge to achieving a unified sports governance structure.
