(www.thenewslark.com) Analysis & Report by Yawar Mehdi (Gymkhana Legacy Voice)
By the grace of Almighty Allah, Salman Siddique a man of unwavering courage and the personification of public service continues to leave an indelible mark through his extraordinary leadership. Even after five decades of a sprawling career, his influence remains more vibrant and credible than ever. As a veteran journalist, I state without exaggeration that at last night’s historic dinner at Qasr-e-Noor Hall, Lahore Cantt, Salman Siddique exuded the same dignity and high spirited resolve that defined him forty years ago. Alongside his team, he extended a warm, personalized welcome to every guest, demonstrating profound respect for the senior members in attendance.
Indelible Footprints & Royal Memories The imagery remains vivid in my mind of his tenure as Managing Director of the Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP). The state level event he organized at the Lahore Fort for World Tourism Day remains a benchmark in bureaucratic history. Throughout my own service, including my tenure in the Chief Minister’s Office, I have witnessed and organized numerous high-profile events including the visits of Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, and various Heads of State yet few could match the standard and “Royal Cuisine” experienced at the Lahore Fort under Salman Siddique’s management.
Administrative Mastery & Vision His career has been a masterclass in swift, courageous decision-making. His strategic foresight was instrumental in removing long-standing hurdles for the expansion of the PC Hotel. From the completion of landmark national projects such as the Patriata Chairlift & the Panjnad Helicopter Service to his tenure as Principal Finance Secretary of Punjab where’s he ensured the seamless provision of funds his administrative prowess remains unparalleled. Having served as Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Punjab’s most renowned Chief Secretary, Federal Finance Secretary, and Chairman of the FBR, the immense weight of these offices never dimmed the characteristic smile or the vibrant spirit he carries today.
A Record Breaking Gathering in Gymkhana History
Despite torrential rain and biting cold, the dinner hosted by the Salman Siddique & Mian Misbah-ur-Rehman Group saw a staggering turnout of 1,251 members, shattering previous records. This was not merely a social gathering, but a profound “Vote of Confidence” in the team’s performance over the past year. Amidst the bustling crowd, members engaged in lively discussions over hot soup, while Salman Siddique graciously handled the rigorous queries of journalists. During his address, he eloquently introduced his panel members: Wajid Aziz Khan, Mian Misbah-ur-Rehman, Sarmad Nadeem, Mian Pervaiz Bhandara, Sumaira Nazir, Sardar Qasim Farooq Ali, Khawaja Imran Zubair, Mian Waqar-ud-Din (Vicky), Shaukat Javed, Dr. Najam-ud-Din, and Syeda Yusuf Jamil Hussain Rizvi, noting that each is a legend in their respective field.
Performance and the Way Forward Addressing the vision for the club, he emphasized that his experienced team has transformed Lahore Gymkhana into a true “Sanctuary of Facilitation.” Key achievements and future plans include:
A 10% reduction in F&B prices, supplemented by up to 40% discounts on various bank cards.
Premier hospitality arrangements for members’ guests.
Complete waiver of sports subscriptions for senior members (65+).
Financial Excellence: Operational profit exceeding 100 million PKR with optimal fund investments.
The Future Masterpiece: The imminent launch of a grand, spacious parking project to resolve the club’s most pressing logistical challenge.
Unwavering Trust of the Elite The success of the Siddique-Misbah panel is endorsed not just by the general membership, but by the explicit support of six former Chairmen: Khawaja Ahmad Tariq Rahim, Mian Nisar Ahmad, Farid-ud-Din Ahmed, Syed Naseer Ahmad, Muhammad Pervaiz Masood, and Hafeezullah Ishaq. Furthermore, eminent figures such as veteran journalists Mujib-ur-Rehman Shami, Iftikhar Ahmad, and Muhammad Hassan Raza. Olympic legend Qasim Zia & former Caretaker CM Punjab, Professor Hasan Askari, alongside senior civil and military officers and Chamber of Commerce leaders, have openly declared their support. This broad based coalition signals that every segment of the club views Salman Siddique’s vision as indispensable.
Conclusion A statesman who has graced the highest offices of the country is a true blessing for the members of the Gymkhana. While the opposing panels include juniors who rose under his mentorship & now make bold claims, such cycles are as old as time. Ultimately, success & honour lie in the hands of the Almighty
“You give honour to whom You will, and You humble whom You will.” In my estimation, the overwhelming attendance at this dinner has already signaled the club’s direction, the ballots on February 14th will merely formalize this reality.
