Expressing his support to another candidate Pashupati Murarka for the post, Karnikar announced the withdrawal of his candidacy at a press meet organised here in Kathmandu on Tuesday.  “I pulled out of the race to support Pashupati. I wish another candidate in the fray also support him,” said Karnikar. Murarka’s election to the post of FNCCI president has become almost certain following Karnikar’s decision to back down.

He called on the district chamber leaders to agree on unanimous candidates.

Meanwhile, another candidate Bhawani Rana is scheduled to hold a press conference on Wednesday.

The FNCCI election is scheduled to be held on July 3.

Earlier, three contenders—Bhaskar Raj Rajkarnikar, Pashupati Murarka and Bhawani Rana—had filed nomination for the post of FNCCI president.