Christopher Pryde, the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, has made it clear that he will not resign nor participate in the tribunal hearing originally scheduled for December 2. His decision is rooted in what he perceives as an unjust suspension of his salary, which he claims has limited his ability to afford legal counsel.
Pryde claims the tribunal’s correspondence dated November 21 raises concerns about fairness, questioning how a hearing can be just when he lacks the financial means to defend himself adequately. He argues that continuing with the hearing under these conditions contradicts the President’s directive for the tribunal’s fairness and may violate international labor conventions that Fiji has ratified.
In his statement, Pryde criticized Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo and the Judicial Services Commission for supporting the suspension of his salary last July, labeling their actions as contempt and interference in tribunal proceedings. He emphasized that the Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka, publicly supports his call for salary reinstatement, which he believes would lead any reasonable person to agree with his stance.
Pryde has firmly stated that he will not be intimidated into stepping down from his position. He has reiterated his determination to defend himself adequately, asserting that his right to do so is a fundamental aspect of natural justice. He remains willing to engage in the tribunal processes if his salary and entitlements are restored, which would allow him to hire legal representation.
The chairperson of the Judicial Services Commission, Mr. Temo, has indicated that proceedings will begin in December but has refrained from commenting further due to the ongoing tribunal matter.
This situation highlights the importance of fair legal processes and the rights of individuals to defend themselves adequately. It serves as a reminder of the value of due process in any judicial or administrative proceedings. The hope is that a resolution can be reached that respects the rights of all parties involved, ensuring justice is upheld.
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