A Tribunal consisting of three members has unanimously ruled on allegations of misconduct against the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Christopher Pryde. The Tribunal concluded that these allegations were not substantiated and recommended to the President, His Excellency Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, that Pryde should not be dismissed from his position.
Justice Anare Tuilevuka chaired the Tribunal, alongside Justices Chaitanya Lakshman and Samuela Qica. On December 23, 2024, the Tribunal submitted its Report to the President, who after reviewing it, praised the Tribunal for their diligent work and contributions to the nation.
Significantly, this Report introduces important legal principles regarding the term “misbehaviour,” which is notably absent from the Constitution’s definitions. Thus, it sets a significant legal precedent that will aid the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) in addressing grievances involving judicial figures, including the DPP.
In addition, the Tribunal highlighted the necessity for guiding policies to govern the assessment of complaints against judicial and quasi-judicial officers, calling for the establishment of clear frameworks to ensure transparency and accountability in future decisions. The JSC is encouraged to formulate a policy as per the Constitutional guidelines to better navigate such issues.
Following the Tribunal’s findings, the President has communicated directly with Pryde, providing him with a copy of the Report. To facilitate Pryde’s return to duty, his suspension since April 13, 2023, will be lifted, and he will receive back pay and associated benefits.
The Tribunal’s Report is now publicly accessible, providing insight into the process and its findings, which can serve as a valuable resource for understanding the evolution of judicial accountability within the Fijian legal framework.
This development not only reinstates Pryde but also reinforces the importance of due process and judicial integrity in Fiji. The legal clarification surrounding “misbehaviour” is a significant stride toward more structured governance in the judicial sector, promising a more accountable future for public service in the country.
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