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Three-time Chutney Soca Monarch champion KI Persad has withdrawn from the 2026 Chutney Soca Monarch (CSM) Grand Finals citing health concerns.

The announcement was made in a press release issued on Thursday by Masala Entertainment.

According to the release, Persad experienced a fainting episode while leaving the stage following the semi-final round at Flava Village on Friday, January 30. He was taken by ambulance to hospital, where he underwent medical tests and was later given the all-clear. Organisers said the episode was initially believed to be linked to dehydration.