Ministry of Sports: Chairperson of TFES, Nagaissen Valaydum, Dismissed

The Ministry of Youth and Sports has dismissed Nagaissen Valaydum, the Chairperson of the Trust Fund for Excellence in Sports (TFES), with immediate effect. In a letter addressed to him on Thursday, April 16, 2026, signed by the Acting Permanent Secretary of the ministry, D. Ramdharee, it states:

"I am directed to inform you that your appointment as Chairperson of the Trust Fund for Excellence in Sports (TFES) is being terminated with immediate effect."

Nagaissen Valaydum was appointed in February 2025 by the Ministry of Sports and officially took office in April, following the establishment of the new TFES board.

According to sources within the organization, some of the Chairperson's actions did not align with the board’s direction. Several complaints were also reported to the ministry, prompting this decision.

Minister Deven Nagalingum explained that Valaydum’s initial appointment was based on his qualifications. However, he later observed that there were issues in how Valaydum managed the institution. "I spoke to him multiple times to point out that certain matters were not correct and needed rectification. Ultimately, it was affecting the proper functioning of the Trust Fund. I had no choice but to replace him to ensure results," the minister stated.

For his part, Valaydum claims he does not understand the reasons behind his dismissal. "The minister never spoke to me about anything. I was simply called today to come and collect my letter. I have said it and I will say it again: I have nothing to be ashamed of. I did my job as it should have been done. There is no need to spread nonsense. I worked for the athletes," said the former chairperson.

He also criticized the complete lack of communication surrounding this decision, stating he was never informed of any complaints against him. "At no point was I informed. I was just called to come collect my letter without explanation. I don’t know what I’m being accused of. I have always done my job diligently. We worked tirelessly to support high-level athletes. Today, one cannot simply come and say anything. I did what was necessary for the athletes and for the country," he added.

Jenny Raboud