Economic Development Board: Mahen Kundasamy's Resignation Confirmed, Attempt to Dismiss No. 2 Fails

The Economic Development Board (EDB) board meeting held on Monday was marked by the announcement of CEO Mahen Kundasamy's resignation, officially attributed to health reasons. Concurrently, the board rejected an attempt to not renew the contract of Deputy CEO Sachin Mohabeer.

According to available information, Mahen Kundasamy informed the board of his impending departure from the institution's leadership, which was presented as a health-related decision. However, higher-ups suggest there is some fatigue regarding what are perceived as "interferences."

Contacted by Le Défi Quotidien, Mahen Kundasamy was unavailable for comment on his departure. He had been appointed on May 2, 2025, approximately ten months ago, to head this state institution.

During the same meeting, a movement emerged within the board to attempt to end Sachin Mohabeer's role upon the expiration of his upcoming contract. However, when it came time to vote, this proposal did not receive the necessary majority. Several board members supported the renewal of his contract, believing he performs his duties adequately. They consider it essential for him to remain in position to ensure continuity and stability in the institution's operations.

Sachin Mohabeer has held the position of Deputy Chief Executive Officer since January 2023. A former executive of the Board of Investment, which was absorbed by the EDB upon its creation in 2017, he has been part of the Mauritian economic administration for nearly 16 years. Therefore, he has extensive experience in the sector.

A Pillar of Investment in Mauritius

The Economic Development Board is one of the central institutions in the state's economic framework. It acts as a one-stop shop for local and foreign investors, facilitating investment projects, business establishments, and the creation of economic activities. In this respect, it issues various types of permits essential for investors. It also plays a role in attracting foreign direct investment and promoting Mauritius as an international business hub, covering several sectors, including finance, technology, industry, real estate, and the ocean economy.

EDB Under Scrutiny

However, the EDB is under scrutiny for several reasons. At the end of December 2025 and early 2026, Paul Bérenger, Deputy Prime Minister, indicated that the EDB is one of the priority issues for 2026, alongside "law and order" and Air Mauritius. He suggested that there is too much interference in the institution's operation.

In early January 2026, the leader of the Mauves confirmed that the EDB was one of the topics discussed during meetings with Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam. Publicly, he also defended Mahen Kundasamy, a former career diplomat, stating that he is "a very competent person."