ISLAMABAD: In a sharp and unwavering response, the Normalization Committee (NC) of the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has asserted its constitutional right to autonomy in reply to a Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) letter that questioned the legitimacy of the upcoming Extraordinary Congress meeting.

The PSB, in its letter (first reported by The News), urged the PFF’s NC to halt the scheduled November 19 meeting and to cease addressing Haroon Malik as PFF president, as he was the chairman of the NC, not an elected PFF president.

In response, the NC made it clear that it would act in strict accordance with its constitution, stating: “The Constitution directs its members/units/bodies to preserve the federation’s independence in all matters without external interference.”

The NC emphasized that Pakistan’s high courts have consistently upheld the PFF’s autonomy, dismissing multiple legal challenges on the grounds that the appropriate forums already exist within the federation.

The NC cited legal precedents in its reply, advising the PSB to consider case law that acknowledges the PFF’s independence. Among these are: ICA No. 1185 & ICA No. 1184 of 2016 (LHC); 2016 YLR 916 (Islamabad High Court); Writ Petition No. 700 of 2024 (Islamabad High Court); Writ Petition No. 34917 of 2024 (LHC) and other similar cases.

The NC also urged the PSB to forward any grievances received from the football stakeholders directly to the PFF, stating: “It is surprising that the genuine football stakeholders would approach the PSB rather PFF or FIFA for getting resolved their issues despite the mechanisms already in place.” The committee requested any relevant details from the PSB regarding specific grievances to conduct a transparent review.

“Throughout the normalisation process, the NC has maintained a cooperative relationship with the PSB, centered on good governance, the promotion of football, and access to infrastructure. In a final note, the NC reiterated its openness to dialogue by inviting the PSB to attend a meeting at the Football House in Lahore on November 26, 2024, at 11:30am to discuss any concerns.”

By reasserting its independence and backing its position with constitutional and legal support, the PFF has effectively placed the PSB in a difficult position, reinforcing its standing as a body governed by international regulations and independent of external influences. This stance may become a reference point for other federations in their communications with the PSB.