PFF Presidential Elections Set for May 20

KARACHI: After nearly six years without a formally elected leader, the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) is preparing for its presidential election.

Following the completion of the candidate review, the FIFA-appointed normalisation committee of the PFF announced the final list of contenders on Wednesday.

The candidates include Taha Alizai and Mohsin Gilani, both experienced figures in Pakistani football, along with Haji Zakaullah, a newcomer gaining traction, particularly in Punjab.

The election, scheduled for May 20, is expected to conclude the tenure of the FIFA-established normalisation committee, which began in September 2019 in response to years of internal strife and management issues.

The incoming president will be tasked with immediately addressing key issues, such as revitalizing domestic football, which has seen limited activity during the interim period.

The new administration will also need to advance long-pending plans to establish a franchise-based league, an initiative that has struggled to gain momentum due to unstable leadership.

Providing better development opportunities for national teams is crucial, especially as the men’s team participates in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers.

Both Taha and Mohsin bring extensive experience to the table. Mohsin previously worked as a FIFA development officer, while Taha established Karachi United FC, one of Pakistan’s pioneering professionally managed football clubs.

Both previously supported Zahir Shah in his conflict with former president Faisal Saleh Hayat but distanced themselves following changes in the NC’s leadership.

Zahir was initially considered the leading candidate until a 10-year ban imposed last month prevented him from running, paving the way for Taha’s candidacy. Candidates require five endorsements from the 25-member PFF congress.