Kochi: The Kerala government has issued a controversial order seeking sponsorship for the Chief Minister's statewide interaction programme ‘Mukhamukham’ (face-to-face). 

Interestingly, the timing of this development coincides with the Opposition parties in the state raising concerns about lack of transparency and secrecy surrounding the funds collected through sponsorships for the Nava Kerala Sadas and Keraleeyam events last year.

‘Mukhamukham’, announced as a follow-up programme to Nava Kerala Sadas, is scheduled to take place from February 18 to March 3 across various locations in the state.

The recent order directs organisers to mobilise funds for event's organization and publicity through sponsorships for the Mukhamukham event. 

Earlier, the Kerala High Court held a controversial order that directed local bodies to gather funds for Nava Kerala Sadas through sponsorships. Many officials are said to have expressed protest against the latest government order.