The Lira Pakistan Association on Sunday reelected a new president and general secretary in what members describe as “a peaceful, transparent, and well-organised election.”

The election was held at St. Lira Hotel, an event that underscored the association’s commitment to internal democracy, unity, and orderly leadership transition.

Members of the association from across Lira City and the wider Lango sub-region all participated in a process also widely described as “free and fair.”

In the race for presidency, Muhammad Ateeq Nawaz secured victory with 47 votes, defeating his challenger Shah Nazir, who scored only nine votes.

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In the race for general secretary, Ashiq Ali emerged as the winner after garnering 43 votes, beating Zeshan Naeem, who only got thirteen votes.

The polls were conducted in an atmosphere full of mutual respect among contestants and voters, reflecting a strong sense of community and shared purpose within the association.

Observers noted that the process demonstrated maturity and a deep respect for democratic principles.

President-elect Muhammad Ateeq Nawaz expressed gratitude to members for entrusting him with leadership and pledged to serve all without bias.

“I will not only serve those who voted for me, but I will serve the entire Pakistan Association and the people of Lango at large,” Nawaz said, emphasising inclusivity and unity as key pillars of his leadership.

Ateeq further noted that his administration will focus on strengthening cooperation among members, promoting development initiatives, and enhancing the association’s contribution to the wider community.

Speaker of Lira City Council, Patrick Okwir, commended the association for its continued unity and positive impact in the region. He encouraged members to consider expanding their identity to reflect their broader reach.

“It would be good if you change the name from Lira Pakistan Association to Lango Pakistan Association because your services have gone beyond Lira and are now benefiting the entire Lango sub-region,” Okwir advised.

His remarks were received positively by members, many of whom acknowledged the association’s growing influence and contribution beyond Lira City.

Dr. Morris Chris Ongom, Director of Uganda National Chamber of Commerce and Industry in charge of the Lira branch, highlighted that elections were a positive move for the Pakistan community to choose leaders who can speak on their behalf on any matter.

“As the Lira business community, we appreciate Mr. Ateeq, President-Elect, for accepting to contest in this election after his previous term of leadership ended, and for being re-elected to serve for the next three years. This is what we call democracy,” he said.

Ongom added that the Lira business community aims to build strong teamwork through cooperation and by striving to avoid divisions among themselves.

He noted that the two countries will continue to work together and encouraged the association to collaborate with Lira City leaders to ensure they establish businesses that create job opportunities for local people.

At the conclusion of the election process, the newly elected leaders were officially presented with certificates confirming their victory and authorising them to assume office immediately.

The new leadership is expected to steer the association into a new phase focused on inclusivity, development, and strengthening social and cultural ties within the Lango sub-region.

Lira Pakistan Association is made up of Pakistanis who have lived in Lira for decades, and most of whom have established businesses and investments beyond the wider Lira.