In a major boost for Indian esports, Lokesh Suji has been re-elected unopposed as the Vice President for South Asia in the Asian Electronic Sports Federation (AESF). The decision was made during the AESF’s recent online Electoral General Assembly, held in Hong Kong, securing Suji a four-year term.
Having held the position since the federation’s inception, Suji’s re-election underscores the growing recognition of India’s contributions to the global esports ecosystem. His continued leadership also strengthens the Esports Federation of India’s (ESFI) efforts in shaping the region’s competitive landscape.
The Electoral General Assembly was chaired by outgoing President Kenneth Fok and attended by representatives from 38 member nations, alongside OCA Deputy Director General Vinod Tiwari. Thailand’s Santi Lothong was elected as AESF’s new President by a simple majority, with Vice Presidents from various Asian zones joining the new leadership.
“I am deeply grateful for the continued trust placed in me and extend my sincere thanks to Kenneth (Fok) for his leadership and guidance over the years. I also look forward to working closely with Santi (Lothong) for this next phase. This re-election is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the remarkable growth of esports in India and South Asia. Esports in Asia is entering a defining era, and I am committed to ensuring that our players, federations, and stakeholders receive the recognition, opportunities, and platforms they deserve,” said Lokesh Suji, Vice President, South Asia, of AESF and Director of ESFI.
Under Suji’s leadership, Indian esports has achieved significant milestones — including medal finishes in the Commonwealth Esports Championship 2022, BRICS Esports Championship, and Asian Esports Games. Indian athletes have also made notable appearances at the Asian Games 2018 and 2022, signaling a steady rise in international competitiveness.
AESF, recognized by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), has played a pivotal role in integrating esports into major multi-sport events. It has previously hosted the Asian Esports Games 2018 and managed the esports category at the Asian Games 2022, with titles such as Dota 2, Street Fighter 6, and FIFA Online. AESF will also serve as the Technical Delegate for Esports at the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya in 2026.
Commenting on the re-election, Santi Lothong, the newly elected AESF President, said, “Having worked alongside Lokesh for years, I have witnessed his unwavering dedication to developing esports in South Asia and beyond. His leadership, vision, and relentless efforts have helped shape the region’s competitive landscape. I look forward to continuing our collaboration and strengthening esports across Asia under this new leadership phase.”
Outgoing President Kenneth Fok also commended Suji, saying, “Lokesh has been a steadfast pillar in AESF’s journey, always pushing to elevate esports across Asia. His passion and commitment have left a lasting impact, shaping key initiatives and strengthening our community. It’s been a pleasure working alongside him, and I am confident he will continue driving esports forward.”
With initiatives like the WAVES Esports Championship (WESC) under the ‘Create in India Challenge’, supported by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, ESFI continues to fuel the momentum for Indian esports. WESC is scheduled to take place from May 1–4, 2025, in Mumbai, and is aimed at providing Indian esports talent with a global platform to shine.
Recognized by the International Esports Federation, Global Esports Federation, and AESF, the ESFI remains committed to elevating India’s presence on the international esports stage – and Suji’s re-election only adds more strength to that mission.
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