The viral video has not only created confusion in Pakistan, but it has also sparked an uncomfortable debate about who has the privilege of occupying the top positions in the country’s institutions.

The man in the video, which has gone viral, was identified on social media as veteran politician Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain, with some posts claiming that he was the Chairman of the Athletics Federation of Pakistan (AFP). But the available reporting shows that the President of the Athletics Federation of Pakistan is Brigadier (Retd.) Wajahat Hussain Sahi, so the viral claim is a case of mistaken identity or misattribution.

But the row has grown into more than just a mix-up.

Pakistanis are expressing their disappointment and frustration on social media, with many wondering if influential connections are more important than competence in positions involving national institutions. A typical sentiment is blunt: “Here, all you need is contacts—and you can enjoy perks till death.”

The anger is understandable in a country where athletes often struggle for facilities, funding and recognition and administrative positions in sports bodies often become a subject of controversy.

The Athletics Federation itself has been questioned over its governance in the past. The Pakistan Sports Board had directed the federation to hold fresh elections in November 2025 after complaints were made over the appointment of senior office-bearers without elections.

History makes the latest viral episode more meaningful than a social-media misunderstanding. It’s a reminder that public institutions can’t afford confusion around who is in charge, why they’re in charge, and whether they got there through a transparent process.

The real demand of ordinary Pakistanis is simple: less privilege, more accountability—and merit, not connections.

 Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)