Arbitration committee resigns over lack of cooperation from PDA leadership

Arbitration committee resigns over lack of cooperation from PDA leadership

KARACHI: The Arbitration Committee, constituted by the Pakistan Dental Association (PDA), responsible for managing the organisation’s legal and financial affairs, has resigned after unilateral changes in TORs and limiting its scope through a letter from President Dr Mahmood Shah, dated 23 September 2024.

The Arbitration Committee, comprising Dr. Kamran A. Vasfy, Dr. Inayat Padhiar, Dr. Imran Ahsan and Hashim Hasan highlighted multiple instances where the PDA leadership, particularly the Finance Secretary, failed to provide updated financial records despite repeated requests. This lack of transparency hindered the committee's ability to review and assess the financial allegations presented by the PDA General Secretary and Joint Secretary.

Additionally, the committee voiced concerns about the PDA President’s conduct, which included accusations of bias and predetermined conclusions. “Without the necessary documents, the committee cannot issue a fair and just decision,” stated the letter, calling the continuation of the arbitration process unproductive.

The Arbitration Committee emphasized that a review of financial records was central to their Terms of Reference and that their inability to secure the required documentation and cooperation leaves them unable to fulfill their mandate.

The resignation marks a significant development in the ongoing efforts to resolve internal matters within the PDA. - PR