Christopher Pryde, who has been reinstated as the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in Fiji, is set to resume his duties next Monday, January 20. This announcement follows a ruling from a three-member tribunal that investigated allegations of misbehavior against him and ultimately concluded that the claims were not substantiated.

In an email obtained by FijiLive, Pryde was formally notified by President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu about the tribunal’s findings. The tribunal’s report, submitted to the President on December 23, 2024, emphasized the lack of evidence supporting the allegations. Consequently, the President lifted the suspension imposed on Pryde since April 13, 2023, and highlighted the reinstatement of Pryde’s original employment agreement with the Fijian government from September 4, 2019. This will also involve the prompt payment of any outstanding salary and benefits.

Pryde’s return involves a structured process; he is required to report to the Chairperson of the Judicial Services Commission to collect all necessary official items, including laptops and mobile devices, before officially resuming his position as DPP.

The tribunal, chaired by Justice Anare Tuilevuka and including Justices Chaitanya Lakshman and Samuela Qica, also provided significant jurisprudential insights, clarifying the definition of “misbehavior,” a term that previously lacked explicit interpretation in Fiji’s Constitution. Their recommendations aim to enhance the procedures for addressing complaints against judicial officials, thereby promoting accountability within the legal framework.

The outcome of this investigation not only reinstates Pryde but also signals a commitment to due process and a transparent judicial system in Fiji, which may help restore public confidence in the legal institutions. As he returns to his role, there is hope that Pryde will continue to uphold the integrity and effectiveness of the DPP office, contributing positively to Fiji’s legal landscape.