The Athletics Federation of Pakistan (AFP) has imposed a lifetime ban on Olympian Arshad Nadeem’s coach, Salman Iqbal Butt, citing gross violations of its constitution during the controversial Punjab Athletics Association (PAA) elections held on August 31, 2025.
In a notification released over the weekend, the federation also announced a 10-year ban on Syed Habib Shah, accusing both individuals of engaging in “wilful, deliberate, and repeated misconduct” despite prior warnings from the AFP to refrain from proceeding with the elections.
Elections Declared Unconstitutional
The AFP declared the PAA elections null and void, stating they were conducted with only a day’s notice—violating key constitutional clauses regarding proper timelines and procedural transparency. An inquiry committee formed to investigate the matter found that the elections were not only unauthorized but held in open defiance of official instructions.
Both Butt and Shah were given opportunities to explain their actions but failed to submit responses within the stipulated time, according to the AFP.
Inquiry Findings and Sanctions
Upon reviewing the available evidence, the AFP’s Executive Committee concluded that the two had committed serious breaches of discipline and demonstrated outright insubordination. Consequently:
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Salman Iqbal Butt has been permanently barred from all AFP-related activities, including coaching.
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Syed Habib Shah has been banned for a period of 10 years from any role within AFP-affiliated events or associations.
Federation’s Next Steps
The AFP also announced that fresh elections for the Punjab Athletics Association will be held under direct supervision of the federation to ensure adherence to its constitution.
Furthermore, all affiliated bodies, institutions, and units have been directed to cease any official dealings with the two banned officials.
The decision marks a strong stance by the AFP to maintain internal governance and constitutional order across its provincial bodies.
