Kathmandu, March 11:

After 12 years at the helm of the Nepal’s most powerful sports body, president of Nepal Olympic Committee (NOC) Rukma Shumsher Rana today announced that he would not contest for the president of the NOC.

The announcement came amidst rumours of rift between Rana and NOC general secretary Dhruba Bahadur Pradhan for the March 13 elections. Pradhan is believed to be running for the presidency for the next four-year term.

“After much thought and careful consideration I wish to announce that I will not be contesting for the post of NOC president in the forthcoming election,” said Rana at a press meet organised at his resident today.

Rana also said that the elections should take place on the scheduled date pointing out the threat of being suspended by the Internaitional Olympic Committee (IOC). The IOC has recently directed the NOC to hold their elections on March 13 or prepare itself to face severe consequences.

Rana, who has been assuming the post since 1995, said that he shall never be far from sports but would rather assume the role of a guardian and oversee the progress made by the new leadership. “If my need is required or my advice wanted, I shall always be there to serve in any capacity,” Rana added.

Rana, however, said that he would continue as the president of Nepal Taekwondo Association.