In a significant development for Pakistan's financial sector, Azeem Hussain Siddiqui has been elected as the new President of the Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Pakistan (ICMA Pakistan). His election marks the beginning of his term for the year 2025-2026, where he will lead the prestigious professional body.
A New Leadership Team Takes Charge
The election results, announced by ICMA Pakistan, also confirmed the appointment of other key office bearers. Mian Muhammad Naeem Iqbal has been elected as the Vice President, joining President Siddiqui in steering the institute's affairs. The announcement was made following the 261st meeting of the ICMA Pakistan Council, which convened to formalize the leadership structure for the upcoming term.
This transition of power is a standard annual process for the institute, ensuring fresh perspectives and continuous guidance for its members. Azeem Hussain Siddiqui now holds the distinction of becoming the 26th President in the institute's history, taking over the reins from the outgoing leadership.
Who is Azeem Hussain Siddiqui?
Azeem Hussain Siddiqui is a respected figure within the Pakistani accountancy community. An experienced Cost and Management Accountant (CMA), he brings a wealth of practical knowledge and professional insight to the presidency. His election is seen as a move to further strengthen the role of management accountants in Pakistan's evolving economic landscape.
While the official announcement did not detail his specific plans, the presidency typically involves championing the profession, enhancing the quality of accountancy education, engaging with regulatory bodies, and expanding the global footprint of ICMA Pakistan qualifications. His leadership will be crucial in addressing the challenges and opportunities faced by finance professionals in the country.
The Role and Significance of ICMA Pakistan
The Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Pakistan is the sole professional body in the country dedicated to regulating the profession of Cost and Management Accounting. It is responsible for:
- Granting the CMA qualification in Pakistan.
- Setting ethical and professional standards for its members.
- Providing continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities.
- Representing the interests of the profession to the government and industry.
The election of a new president is therefore a matter of national importance for the business and finance community. The leadership sets the tone for policy advocacy, educational reforms, and the overall development of financial expertise critical for corporate governance and economic planning.
The institute's council, which includes the newly elected president and vice president, will now focus on its strategic agenda for the term. Stakeholders, including thousands of CMA students and members across Pakistan, will be looking forward to the new team's initiatives to promote the profession and contribute to the nation's economic well-being.
