Thapa, who had been at the helm of the association since 1995, informed about his decision in writing to the National Sports Council (NSC)—the apex body of sports. He named Anfa First Vice-president Lalit Krishna Shrestha to assume his responsibility during the period of investigation. Along with Thapa, Anfa Treasurer Birat Jung Shahi has also stepped aside from the office. Assistant Treasurer Rabindra Joshi will take charge for the period.

The PAC on September 28 directed the Ministry of Youth and Sports to suspend the Anfa office bearers for two months over alleged embezzlement of funds. Thapa, along with General Secretary Dhirendra Pradhan, Treasurer Birat Jung Shahi and a an Anfa Academy building construction supervisor, faces the charge of misappropriating Rs 580 million of association’s funds.

“I decided to step aside for the sake of Nepali football. Fifa would have certainly suspended Nepal from all footballing activities if I didn’t take the step,” Thapa said at a press meet on Monday. But he declined to comment on two other officials facing PAC suspension. “The decision has been taken for the safe landing of Nepali football and at the moment I am not in a position to make further comments,” he said.  

NSC Member Secretary Yubaraj Lama said the ministry had directed the council to bar only those officials involved in the financial matters, from exercising their power. “Anfa has adhered to the PAC directive. We will report this to the PAC and wait for their instruction before taking another step.”