Southex has announced that three-time Chutney Soca Monarch and finalist in the 2026 CSM competition, KI Persad, has withdrawn from the competition, citing health reasons.
In a statement, Southex said KI fainted after leaving the stage at the Chutney Soca Monarch semi-finals at the Flava Village, Queen’s Park Savannah last week, which was likely due to dehydration. He was treated and cleared at the hospital, but on his return to Canada, doctors there advised two weeks’ rest, effectively ruling him out of the Grand Finals this weekend.
The Chutney Soca Monarch Grand Finals will be held on February 8th at Skinner Park, San Fernando, with 14 artistes competing for the Chutney Soca Monarch, Queen of Chutney Soca, and Traditional Monarch titles.