Controversy Unfolds: DPP’s Suspended Talks with Former AG Under Investigation

The Permanent Secretary for Civil Service, Parmesh Chand, expressed that it was unusual for the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, Christopher Pryde, to have a detailed discussion with former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, especially while Sayed-Khaiyum was under investigation.

During Pryde’s tribunal hearing in Suva, Chand clarified that the two engaged in a conversation lasting over 30 minutes at the Emperor’s birthday celebrations at the Japanese Embassy on February 28, 2023. Chand emphasized that as a senior public servant, he would avoid such situations, given the potential for misinterpretation and the risk of a compromised environment, particularly because Pryde had previously worked under Sayed-Khaiyum as the Solicitor-General.

Chand noted that the Director of Public Prosecutions should have exercised significant caution, particularly since ongoing investigations were taking place against Sayed-Khaiyum at the time. He personally witnessed the conversation between the two but was not privy to their dialogue. He described the exchange as intense, with no interruptions during their discussion.

The tribunal is currently reviewing allegations of misconduct and is tasked with advising His Excellency the President on whether to remove Pryde from his position as DPP. Additionally, it has come to light that on February 28, 2023, Pryde was seen engaging with Sayed-Khaiyum while the Criminal Investigation Department was actively investigating the former Attorney-General. Moreover, reports indicate that as of December 4, 2023, Pryde continued to receive a stipend of $1,000 per month as superannuation without proper approval from the relevant authorities.

The tribunal proceedings will continue at a later date.

This situation underscores the importance of transparency and ethical conduct within public service, especially in roles that require a high level of accountability. Moving forward, it is essential for public servants to navigate their professional interactions carefully to maintain public trust.