Five Months On: Governance Crisis Looms Over Reinvigorated Pakistan Dental Association as Branches Await Clarity

KARACHI: In an unexpected turn of events, earlier this month, it was reported in media that the Pakistan Dental Association (PDA) Karachi Chapter urgently sought clarification from the PDA Central Council regarding delays in approving a new constitution. The concerns raised by PDA Karachi centered on the absence of a structured framework to guide branch operations, issues of financial autonomy, and unclear governance protocols.

To obtain a response, Dental Tribune Pakistan reached out to PDA Central Council President Dr. Khurshid Ahmad; however, his formal response remains pending. Given the growing uncertainty and concerns within the dental community, Dental Tribune Pakistan then approached PDA Karachi Chapter General Secretary Dr. Feroz Jehangir to understand what prompted his letter to the PDA Central Council President.

Dr. Feroz Jehangir provided critical insight into the current state of PDA branches and the challenges they face. He explained that while the PDA Central has been officially registered in Islamabad under the Society Act and Charity Act, its branches remain in a state of limbo due to the absence of a functional constitution.

“The PDA Central President has formed branches, and many of them have already conducted their oath-taking ceremonies. However, the question arises: what exactly did these branches take an oath for? Was it for being members, or was it to work under a constitution that does not yet exist?”
– Dr. Feroz Jehangir

He further highlighted that none of the newly formed branches have established working guidelines, creating confusion and hindering efficient operations. A significant concern he revealed is the financial autonomy of these branches.

“One of the biggest issues is the opening of bank accounts. Every association branch traditionally had a bank account, but this time, the PDA Central constitution is extremely limited and does not provide any assistance in opening these accounts.”
– Dr. Feroz Jehangir

To address these governance issues, a review committee—comprising senior dentists from across Pakistan, representatives from colleges, and industry experts—was formed. This committee meticulously assessed and drafted a revised PDA constitution, which was subsequently handed over to the PDA Central Council President. However, bureaucratic delays persist as the document remains under legal vetting before being presented to the General Body.

Dr. Jehangir stressed the need for greater inclusivity in finalizing the constitution:

“Before presenting it to the General Body, I believe that all branches should also be given a say in the constitution and be allowed to review and provide their input before finalization. The purpose of a constitution is to serve as a guiding framework that allows branches to function efficiently.”
– Dr. Feroz Jehangir

He emphasized that PDA branches should not merely exist to conduct continuing education programs but must also play a pivotal role in addressing critical issues affecting dentists, including employment concerns and broader professional challenges. He urged all branches to collectively demand that the PDA Central President finalize and implement the proposed constitution after legal vetting:

“The nominated body, which currently has a one-year tenure due to the lack of elections, must operate under a defined PDA Central Constitution. Once their tenure is complete, a free and fair election should be conducted, ensuring a democratic transition to new leadership.”
– Dr. Feroz Jehangir