Who will represent the customs agents? A crucial contest is set to take place this week in Karachi – the country’s largest city – between rival groups in the Karachi Customs Agents Association.

The previously simmering tensions have now erupted into open conflict, particularly after cases were filed against 46 customs agents in the faceless customs system and the cancellation of licenses. The Businessmen Panel has leveled serious accusations against the incumbent Customs Agents Alliance group.

The legal action and license cancellations involving 46 agents have become a major source of contention. In the upcoming elections on September 27, two main groups are participating: the incumbent Customs Agents Alliance and the Businessmen Panel.

Presidential candidate Yahya Muhammad, speaking to the media, blamed the current leadership for the continued suspension of the 46 customs agents. He vowed that if elected, the Businessmen Panel would work toward reinstating those agents and would eliminate the point-scoring culture among customs agents.

Yahya Muhammad stated, “We have nominated candidates based strictly on merit, selecting individuals who are in sync with today’s fast-paced changes and who have a strong command over SROs and notifications.”

Vice Presidential candidate Mehmood-ul-Hassan Awan said, “Our disagreement is on policy matters. The ruling group has only focused on benefiting during their own tenure, and whatever attempts they made regarding the 46 customs agents were complete failures.”

He added, “No institution can progress unless it is led with honesty and free from personal interests. Our goal is to strengthen professional standards and ensure our association has a strong voice in policymaking.”

It is worth noting that out of over 3,000 registered voters, 1,833 customs agents are expected to cast their votes on September 27. Both groups are hopeful for victory. However, resolving the ongoing cases against agents will remain a major challenge for whoever wins.