'Many files unavailable, detailed investigation needed'; Minister O J Janeesh about Messi controversy

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Minister O J Janeesh raised the unavailability of many files related to the previous government's failed move to bring football legend Messi to Kerala. There is a lack of clarity, including the selection of a private event management company for the event. The minister said a detailed investigation is imminent. Chief Minister VD Satheesan had earlier stated that the government would recover the amount lost in the Messi issue.

Meanwhile, information emerged that the previous government intervened on behalf of the sponsor. Evidence emerged that the Pinarayi government sought diplomatic intervention to avoid the compensation charged by the AFA to the sponsor. The government sent a letter to the Indian ambassador in Argentina. The letter sent by the Sports Department Secretary states that Argentina's withdrawal will also cause financial difficulties for the government.

The letter says that the compensation charged by the AFA for the delay in paying the sponsor fee should be avoided and that the ambassador should intervene immediately. The letter also says that the state's financial interests should be protected. The letter was sent on July 7, 2025. The letter states that the government's reputation will be affected and fundraising will be a crisis.