![A tough fight expected in PFF president elections [TNS]](https://footballpakistan.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Taha-Alizai-Mohsen-Gilani-Hafiz-Zakaullah-1.jpg "A tough fight expected in PFF president elections [TNS]")
by Sarfraz Ahmed
As Pakistan braces for the much-anticipated Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) presidential elections scheduled by the end of May, the race is shaping up to be a gripping contest among three distinctly profiled candidates: Hafiz Zaka Ullah, Taha Alizai and Mohsen Gilani. All three contenders bring unique strengths to the table.
Profiles of the contenders: Mohsen Gilani, a former FIFA Development Officer, and Taha Alizai, founder of Karachi United FC – the first professionally-run club in Pakistan – are both seasoned figures in football development. Their long-standing contributions to the sport have earned them recognition in administrative circles.
Previously, both men supported Zahir Shah in his high-stakes power tussle with Faisal Saleh Hayat, the former PFF president recognised by FIFA until the installation of a Normalisation Committee (NC) aimed at resolving Pakistan’s football crisis.
According to PFF electoral rules, each presidential candidate must secure five nominations from the 25-member PFF Congress to become eligible. With seven votes controlled by powerful, government-backed departments, lobbying has kicked off behind closed doors. Both Mohsen and Taha are believed to be actively negotiating for this critical support, and their institutional ties may prove decisive.
Taha, in particular, has campaigned on a vision of structural reform and grassroots revival, positioning himself as a developmental candidate.
Meanwhile, Mohsen banks on his international experience and legacy within FIFA corridors to project stability and expertise.
Yet, amid this politically charged landscape, Hafiz Zaka Ullah is quietly consolidating momentum. A former footballer with deep roots in the local game.
Crucially, he is the only candidate nominated from within the newly elected PFF Congress, giving his candidacy an organic legitimacy.
Zaka has already secured the endorsement of the Pakistan Football Referees Association, a move that could tilt the scales in his favour. His on-ground involvement and familiarity with grassroots struggles make him a relatable figure for stakeholders long disillusioned by bureaucratic mismanagement.
He has pledged a transparent, inclusive leadership model with a strong emphasis on meritocracy and player development. For many within the football community, this message has struck a much-needed chord.
Challenges Ahead: However, Zaka’s biggest test lies in his lack of experience with international football governance. Navigating the intricacies of FIFA and AFC diplomacy, securing foreign funding, and managing institutional relations will require a steep learning curve. The expectations from clubs, players, and fans are massive – and failure to deliver swift reforms could erode his support quickly.
Final Outlook: As the elections draw near, the contest is no longer just about personalities. It is a referendum on the future direction of football in Pakistan – a sport yearning for revival after years of stagnation. While Mohsen and Taha remain formidable candidates with experience and networks, Zaka Ullah’s fresh appeal, clean image, and deep-rooted understanding of local football dynamics can help him a little.
In the end, the winner will not only need political savvy and institutional backing but also the vision and resolve to unite a fractured football community and restore credibility to Pakistan’s most popular sport.