Crisis within the Tourism Authority: José Arunasalom suspended over allegations of misconduct

José Arunasalom was dismissed as chairperson of the Mauritius Tourism Authority by the Minister of Tourism, Richard Duval, last week, after serving in this position for just over a year. However, during Richard Duval's absence abroad, Michael Sik Yuen, who was acting in his place, reinstated José Arunasalom to his position last Wednesday, March 4, 2026.

In a turn of events, yesterday, Friday, March 6, 2026, the Cabinet has suspended José Arunasalom from his duties following allegations of misconduct against him. An investigation has also been launched to determine the validity of these allegations.

It is worth noting that José Arunasalom was a member of the MMM until 2014, when he distanced himself from the party. He was appointed as the chairman of the board of the Mauritius Tourism Authority by Richard Duval on January 9, 2025.