In welcome news for players and hockey fans across the country, the long-standing governance crisis in Pakistan hockey is set to enter a decisive phase. A parliamentary sub-committee has directed the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) to conduct long-delayed elections within two months, while also urging the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to fast-track its probe into the federation’s finances.
PHF’s leadership under Tariq Hussain Bugti has become a contentious issue among sports governing bodies, with concerns over exorbitant financial dealings under his tenure drawing particular scrutiny.
The sub-committee of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) recently heard from all relevant stakeholders, including representatives from the law ministry, the attorney general’s office, PHF officials, and IPC ministry members, to chart the next course of action.
Following deliberations, the panel confirmed that Tariq Bugti’s appointment as PHF president was legally valid. However, it emphasized that his mandate was strictly limited to conducting timely elections, a responsibility that has been repeatedly delayed since he assumed office in 2023.
Simultaneously, the committee instructed the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) to oversee the elections through its appointed commissioner and to initiate a thorough scrutiny of hockey clubs in collaboration with local administrations.
Meanwhile, the FIA briefed lawmakers on its ongoing inquiry into more than 100 audit paras related to PHF’s accounts and operations, many of which involve allegations of financial irregularities. The committee ordered the investigation to be concluded within two months, with findings to be made public.
Just last month, the PSB had also demanded accountability from Bugti regarding the federation’s finances, seeking details of all bank accounts, expenditures on foreign tours, and income generated through PHF properties. It further requested explanations for “unauthorized perks” and administrative expenses claimed by office-bearers.
With Pakistan hockey struggling both on and off the field, the upcoming Pakistan Hockey Federation Elections could prove pivotal. If conducted fairly and transparently, they may not only restore credibility to the sport’s governing body but also lay the foundation for a more accountable and performance-driven future.
