KATHMANDU: Minister for Education and Sports Sasmit Pokharel has said the Nepal government is working to have the suspension of the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) lifted.
Speaking at a meeting of the House of Representatives on Monday, Minister Pokharel said FIFA suspended ANFA on June 24, 2026, until further notice, and that high-level efforts are underway to have the suspension lifted.
He said the National Sports Council (NSC) had repeatedly warned ANFA after it proceeded with its general assembly and election process without complying with the council’s directives. Following continued non-compliance, the NSC suspended ANFA under Section 29(2) of the National Sports Development Act through its decision of Chaitra 11, 2082.
He said the suspension was later lifted on Jestha 1, 2083, following action on an application submitted by ANFA.
According to Minister Pokharel, FIFA viewed the directives issued by the NSC under the National Sports Development Act as “third-party interference” and subsequently suspended ANFA in accordance with its statutes until further notice.
Minister Pokharel also informed the House that the government has decided to provide financial assistance for the treatment of Ashish Rai, who was injured during a Nepal-China friendly match and is currently receiving treatment in Thailand, within the limits of the budget approved by the NSC.
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