Corruption Allegations Rock Fiji’s Public Prosecutions Office

An official complaint has been filed by senior management at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) against Christopher Pryde, the Director of Public Prosecutions, with the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). The complaint is centered around allegations of misconduct involving the unauthorized payment of gratuity from 2013 to 2018 without the requisite approval of the President. Additional allegations include Pryde’s claim for gratuity in 2023 that exceeds his entitlement, the payment for life insurance instead of superannuation, and covering family travel expenses that fall outside of his contractual obligations.

In the wake of these allegations, the Office of the President on January 7, 2025, sent a letter and tribunal report to Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva, which included findings and a recommendation for Pryde’s reinstatement. To adhere to the tribunal’s directives, Tikoisuva requested Pryde’s personal files from the Office of the Chief Registrar, which had been secured during the tribunal’s investigation.

A review meeting was conducted on January 9, 2025, involving senior management, including Tikoisuva and the Deputy DPP, where several inconsistencies were identified within Pryde’s files. Tikoisuva stated that these inconsistencies prompted the subsequent lodging of a complaint with FICAC, and she confirmed that Pryde has been informed of the complaint against him.

This situation follows an earlier inquiry by the Attorney General’s office, which revealed that Pryde’s payment vouchers lacked the required approvals, signifying lapses in oversight that could have broader implications for governance and ethical practices within public institutions. As this investigation unfolds, there is potential for reforms in financial management within the judicial system, aiming to enhance transparency and accountability.

In summary, this development not only highlights the serious allegations against Pryde but also underscores a pivotal moment for the ODPP and the legal system in Fiji. The call for better oversight and accountability can lead to significant improvements, fostering public trust in the judiciary.