A Tribunal composed of three members has concluded its inquiry into allegations of misconduct against Christopher Pryde, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The Tribunal unanimously determined that the allegations brought against him were not substantiated, and it has advised the President not to remove Pryde from his position.
The Tribunal was chaired by Justice Anare Tuilevuka, with Justice Chaitanya Lakshman and Justice Samuela Qica serving as members. They submitted their report to President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu on December 23, 2024. Following a thorough review, the President praised the Tribunal for their diligent work, emphasizing the significance of their findings.
One of the key contributions of this report is the establishment of an important legal precedent regarding the definition of “misbehaviour,” which previously lacked a clear definition in the Constitution. This clarity is expected to aid the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) in evaluating complaints against judicial and quasi-judicial figures, including the DPP.
Moreover, the Tribunal has recommended the development of guided policies to enhance the procedure for handling complaints against judicial officers in the absence of existing regulations. These recommendations aim to foster consistency, transparency, and accountability in decision-making processes.
In light of the report, President Lalabalavu has initiated the reinstatement of Pryde by revoking his suspension effective April 13, 2023. Alongside the resumption of duties, Pryde will receive back pay and benefits, and he is required to return to the office with all necessary equipment handed over.
The report is now publicly available online, allowing for greater transparency and public access to this significant legal development.
In summary, the Tribunal’s findings not only clear Pryde of the allegations but also pave the way for stronger regulations in handling misconduct claims within the judicial system in Fiji. This is a hopeful development, as it enhances the legal framework governing judicial conduct and promotes accountability. It underscores a commitment to upholding the integrity of the justice system.
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