Thousands attend PBG rally as Ali Hussam Asghar begins election drive

By Commerce Reporter

LAHORE – Chairman of the Pioneer Business Group (PBG), Ali Hussam Asghar, formally launched his campaign for the 2026 Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) elections, with the group claiming an overwhelming show of support from Lahore’s business community during a large gathering at Faletti’s Hotel.

The event brought together market presidents, general secretaries, office-bearers and representatives of various trader organisations from across Lahore. PBG leaders described the gathering as one of the largest displays of support witnessed in the city’s commercial politics ahead of the chamber elections.

Addressing participants, Ali Hussam Asghar thanked the trader community for what he called their trust and confidence in the Pioneer Business Group. He said the support of businessmen remained the group’s greatest strength and pledged to continue working for the welfare and representation of Lahore’s traders.

He announced the formal launch of his election campaign, saying the business community’s dignity and interests would remain his foremost priority. He added that PBG would continue to raise traders’ concerns at every available forum.

Ali Hussam also rejected speculation regarding differences within the alliance, stating that the PIAF-Pioneers Progressive Alliance remained intact and would continue to contest the LCCI elections united.

Expressing confidence in the upcoming elections, he said the alliance would participate with full strength and was optimistic about securing a comprehensive victory in the 2026 Lahore Chamber polls.

During the campaign, PBG also received declarations of support from several trader organisations. According to organisers, Muhammad Fayyaz Butt, President of Hafeez Centre, announced his backing for the alliance led by senior business leaders Mian Anjum Nisar and Ali Hussam Asghar, reaffirming Hafeez Centre’s commitment to the coalition.

Ali Hussam criticised his political opponents, saying that greater focus on serving the business community rather than criticism could have produced different results for them. He further asserted that attempts to weaken the Pioneer Business Group had failed and that the organisation continued to enjoy widespread support among Lahore’s traders.

The gathering marked the beginning of PBG’s campaign for the forthcoming LCCI elections, with party leaders expressing confidence that the business community would endorse their vision and leadership in the polls.