Kerala MLA Seeks Vigilance Probe into Failed Messi-AFA Visit Deal
A Kerala MLA is demanding a state vigilance inquiry into a failed attempt by the previous LDF government to bring Lionel Messi and the Argentine Football Association to the state. Allegations include substantial undisclosed financial transactions and violations of money laundering regulations.
Key takeaways
- A Kerala MLA has demanded a state vigilance inquiry into a failed attempt to bring Lionel Messi and the Argentine Football Association to the state.
- Allegations include substantial financial transactions totaling approximately ₹130 crore between a private sponsor and the AFA.
- The previous LDF government is accused of secrecy regarding the deal and stadium refurbishment costs.
- The AFA faces multiple financial investigations in the US and Argentina, with the FBI investigating money laundering allegations.
P.K. Firoz, State General Secretary of the Muslim Youth League and a Member of the Legislative Assembly, has called for an investigation by the State Vigilance and Anti Corruption Bureau. The inquiry would focus on the previous LDF government's unsuccessful effort to arrange a visit by the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and its star player Lionel Messi to Kerala. Approximately ₹130 crore is reported to have been exchanged between the LDF government's chosen private sponsor, a television broadcasting company, and the AFA.
Mr. Firoz stated that his organization's prior complaint prompted an inquiry by Sports Special Secretary N. Prasanth. This internal investigation allegedly uncovered significant irregularities and questionable financial dealings involving the Kerala government and the AFA. The Muslim Youth League had previously raised concerns about the government's selection of a private sponsor for the AFA's visit and an alleged contract that included refurbishing the Kochi Jawaharlal Nehru stadium for an estimated ₹70-100 crore. According to Mr. Firoz, the LDF government did not disclose details of the arrangement.
The LDF government remained silent on the matter until the private sponsor publicly disclosed paying ₹126 crore in advance to the AFA for a visit that did not occur. Mr. Firoz highlighted that the AFA, including its leadership, faces multiple financial and disciplinary investigations in the United States and Argentina. The US FBI is reportedly examining AFA's commercial transactions and money laundering allegations, alongside a third agency linked to the AFA.
Mr. Firoz is seeking clarification on the involvement of a television broadcasting company in the financial aspects of the AFA deal. He also questioned the role of the then Sports Minister, V. Abdurahiman, who reportedly traveled to Spain to secure the AFA's visit and announced the event.
Sources reviewed
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