Polling commenced at 9 a.m. and continued until 6 p.m. Despite minor objections raised by some candidates, the process remained peaceful. Lawyers, journalists, and civil society representatives visiting the chamber commended the smooth conduct of the election. Many congratulated the KCCI Election Commission for ensuring transparency and a calm atmosphere throughout the day.
Key Election Results
BMG’s dominance was evident in the results, securing 3,146 panel votes compared to BMA’s 794. The remaining votes were mixed. At the end of the polling, Jawed Bilwani was elected as the President of KCCI, while Zia-ul-Arfeen was named Senior Vice President, and Faisal Khalil Ahmed was appointed Vice President.
Major Contesting Groups
The Businessmen Group (BMG), led by Zubair Motiwala, and the Businessmen Alliance (BMA), headed by Asif Sakhi, were the two key competitors. Both groups are prominent in the business community, and their rivalry generated significant interest in this year’s elections.
Polling Environment
The elections were conducted in a peaceful environment, with no major incidents reported. Observers and visitors praised the KCCI Election Commission for their role in ensuring a transparent and fair process, defying concerns of disruptions. The smooth election process has raised hopes for a smooth transition of leadership, as the business community eagerly awaits the impact of the newly elected members.
As the KCCI continues to represent the interests of Karachi’s business community, the newly elected members will face the responsibility of addressing key challenges facing businesses in the city. Their leadership will have a substantial impact on the local economy, making these elections critical for the chamber’s future.
