Defiant DPP Fights Back Against Damning Accusations

Suspended Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde has responded to accusations from Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo, who claimed that Pryde misappropriated taxpayer funds in Fiji. Pryde condemned these assertions as a “defamatory slur” on his character and emphasized that such remarks cannot go unchallenged.

In an interview with FijiLive, Pryde stated that the Acting Chief Justice should face scrutiny for his failure to report the alleged misappropriation to appropriate authorities. He also criticized Temo for making what he termed “outrageous, defamatory, and untrue statements” before the Tribunal and for advising the President to suspend his salary unlawfully.

Pryde disclosed that in October, Chief Registrar Tomasi Bainivalu had communicated with his legal representatives, proposing a settlement offer. However, Pryde rejected this offer, insisting that he wanted a letter from the President clearing his name. Subsequently, the Chief Registrar retracted the offer when Pryde refused to consent.

Pryde further argued that it was unjust for the Tribunal to proceed with hearings in his absence, a view supported by the Fiji Law Society. He stated that the Tribunal’s refusal to grant a hearing extension has led to significant unfairness, as the integrity of the proceedings has been compromised by the lack of counterarguments to the allegations made against him.

In a related development, a letter from the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) offered Pryde a substantial settlement of $200,000 conditional upon his resignation from the position of DPP. This settlement would conclude the ongoing proceedings but would also prevent Pryde from pursuing any legal action against the JSC.

In summary, this situation raises concerns over the due process and integrity of legal proceedings, especially concerning how allegations are addressed in absence of the accused. As the case unfolds, it highlights the importance of accountability and transparency within judicial processes, ultimately fortifying the principles of justice. As both parties seek resolution, there is hope for a fair outcome that reassures the public confidence in the judicial system.