KATHMANDU: Minister for Education and Sports Sasmit Pokharel has claimed that the government has not interfered in the affairs of the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA), despite recent developments surrounding the football governing body.
Responding to questions from journalists while briefing the media on Cabinet decisions at Singha Durbar on Thursday, Pokharel said the government initiated an investigation after receiving numerous complaints alleging corruption and financial irregularities within ANFA, insisting that the probe should not be interpreted as government interference.
Commenting on FIFA’s suspension of ANFA, the minister said government involvement in the association had occurred under previous administrations as well, adding that the current situation could not be attributed solely to the present government.
He said the report of the investigation committee, led by the Vice-Chairperson of the National Sports Council, would be forwarded to the concerned authorities for necessary action immediately after it is submitted. Pokharel also said officials from FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have already been invited for dialogue.
The minister further announced that political appointments in ANFA would be completely discontinued in the future, stressing that the association would no longer be allowed to become a hub of corruption.
According to Pokharel, future ANFA leadership should comprise former footballers, individuals with a sound understanding of the game, and genuine football enthusiasts who have contributed to the development of Nepali football.
Responding to criticism that the government prevented ANFA officials from attending FIFA events, Pokharel said the focus should remain on developing domestic football rather than prioritizing overseas trips to watch the FIFA World Cup.
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