15 August 2025-Kabul, Afghanistan: On the eve of the 5th Congress of the Afghanistan Sports Journalists Federation (ASJF), excitement is building as 76 qualified members from across Afghanistan and abroad have officially nominated themselves for positions within the Federation’s new leadership.
The provincial representatives, elected by members in 31 provinces, will cast their votes on 16 August 2025, in a process overseen by AIPS President Mr. Gianni Merlo and Secretary General Mr. Jura Ozmec to ensure full transparency, credibility, and compliance with both Afghan law and AIPS statutes.
This high level of participation reflects strong trust in ASJF’s democratic process and its internationally recognized legitimacy as the sole national body representing Afghan sports journalists. Many nominees bring years of experience in sports reporting, commentary, and media management, demonstrating both professional capability and a deep commitment to the Federation’s mission and some are fresh and new young sports journalists aiming career in sports media.
Giving a voice to remote provinces will be a key focus of the new leadership. In many rural areas, sports journalists face greater challenges than their colleagues in Kabul, from limited access to events and training to security and resource constraints.
ASJF has pledged to make these journalists visible, supported, and connected through targeted programs, training workshops, and stronger provincial networks.
Looking ahead, ASJF’s next programs will focus on Provincial outreach, sending trainers and resources to the most remote regions, Skills development, regular online and in person workshops in sports journalism, photography, and commentary, International exposure, connecting Afghan journalists with global sports media platforms and events.
ASJF will also look for Ethics and standards, ensuring reporting remains professional, fair, and inclusive.
Senior Sports Journalist Mohammad Wasil Wesal expressed: “The number of nominees shows the passion of Afghan sports journalists to serve their community. We are not just electing leaders tomorrow, we are choosing a path to give every province a voice, and to ensure Afghan sports journalism thrives under one united, recognized, and ethical federation.”
Tomorrow’s Congress will not only decide the future leadership but will also be a powerful statement of unity, resilience, and professionalism for the Afghan sports journalism community.