Judicial Services Commission Assistant Secretary Zarina Bi testified in court that there are no records authorizing the monthly superannuation payment of US$1000 to the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Christopher Pryde. Bi explained that Pryde’s employment contract did not specify a figure for superannuation. The Commission has sought clarification from Pryde regarding who approved these payments, with the inquiry initiated by Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo, who chairs the JSC.
Bi confirmed that Pryde’s base salary is $250,000, and the Commission is questioning the legitimacy of the payments, as they should have been approved through a specified constitutional process requiring the involvement of the Attorney-General and Presidential authority for appointments made by the JSC.
Fiji Law Society member Laurel Vaurasi highlighted that when Bi became the Assistant Secretary in 2013, no records were available to support the authorization of Pryde’s superannuation payments, with the exception of the US$1000 transaction. Justice Tuilevuka inquired whether this payment arrangement predated Pryde’s appointment as DPP and whether it was documented in his file, to which Bi responded that existing records are meticulously maintained by both the JSC and the Office of the Chief Justice.
The tribunal is currently examining allegations of misconduct related to Pryde and has advised His Excellency the President regarding potential removal as DPP. Notably, it was reported that on February 28, 2023, Pryde had a lengthy discussion with Sayed-Khaiyum coinciding with an active investigation against him. Furthermore, on December 4, 2023, it was noted that Pryde continued to receive the US$1000 monthly payment without proper authorization.
As the trial proceeds, both the legal and ethical implications of these payments are under scrutiny, reinforcing the importance of accountability and transparency in governmental financial practices.
This situation highlights the vital nature of oversight in judicial payments and contracts, ensuring that such processes remain above board and follow legal protocols. It also serves as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to integrity within public office. The outcome may lead to strengthened regulations and reaffirm the importance of adhering to constitutional mandates in Fiji’s governance.
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