The decision regarding the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, Christopher Pryde, will soon be disclosed to the public. However, this revelation will only occur after President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu reviews the tribunal report, conducts necessary consultations, and gathers advice on the matter.
The President’s Office announced a delay in this process due to some officials being on holiday for Christmas and New Year’s. The report was presented to President Ratu Naiqama on December 23, 2024. Following the report’s submission, Mr. Pryde formally requested that it be made public, citing Section 112 (6) of the Fiji Constitution, which requires the report’s disclosure.
Pryde, who has served as DPP since 2011, was suspended with full pay on April 13, 2023, amid allegations of misbehavior related to his association with former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. This suspension was enacted under Chapter 5, Part A, Section 112 (4) of the Constitution. A tribunal of three members was formed to investigate the allegations against him, chaired by Justice Anare Tuilevuka, with Justice Chaitanya Lakshman and Justice Samuela Qica serving as members.
In his letter to the President, Pryde highlighted his belief that if the tribunal’s findings show insufficient evidence of misconduct, his suspension should be lifted and his position restored. He pointed out the constitutional mandates stating that the President must follow the tribunal’s advice regarding potential removal.
Furthermore, he emphasized the urgency of concluding this matter, as he has been suspended for nearly 21 months and has been without salary for almost six months, resulting in significant financial strain.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has refrained from commenting on the issue, stating it is outside of his purview. The Office of the President has acknowledged the necessity to make the report public and confirmed that the process of reviewing it will resume once officials return from their holiday break.
This situation highlights the need for timely resolution in matters of governance to ensure justice and fairness. With the New Year approaching, there is hope that the review process will be expedited, allowing Mr. Pryde to receive clarity and potentially restore his position, bringing an end to an extended period of uncertainty.
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