The Tribunal’s report regarding the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, Christopher Pryde, is set to be made public, but it will only happen after President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu reviews the findings and consults relevant parties. The President’s Office has noted that this process may take longer than anticipated due to several officials being on leave for the Christmas and New Year holidays.
The report was submitted to the President on December 23, 2024. In a recent correspondence with the President’s Office, Pryde expressed his hope for the report’s public release, citing Section 112 (6) of the Constitution which mandates it. Pryde, who has served as DPP since 2011, was suspended in April 2023 based on allegations of misbehavior related to his interaction with the former Attorney-General, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. A Tribunal, consisting of three justices, was tasked with investigating these allegations.
Pryde emphasized the constitutional provisions which suggest that if the Tribunal finds no sufficient evidence of misbehavior, his suspension should be lifted and his position restored. He highlighted the financial struggles he has faced due to the suspension, which has persisted for nearly 21 months, with a suspension of his salary for the last six months.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka refrained from commenting on the matter, deferring it to constitutional processes. The President’s Office acknowledged the necessity to make the report public and assured that it would be done as soon as the evaluation and consultations are completed.
This situation underscores the complexity of legal and procedural frameworks in handling public office conduct while also reflecting the broader implications on individual lives, as exemplified by Mr. Pryde’s financial hardships. The timely conclusion of this process could bring both clarity to the allegations against him and closure to his prolonged suspension.
In summary, the report involving Christopher Pryde is being processed and will be disclosed after the holiday season, potentially resolving a significant chapter in his career and addressing the wider issue of accountability in public office.
It is a hopeful reminder that transparency in governance is essential and that fair processes should bring about resolution and justice for all parties involved.
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