Suspended Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde has voiced his frustration regarding the delay in the scheduled tribunal hearing for his case.
Last month, Jalesi Temo, the Acting Chief Justice and Chairman of the Judicial Service Commission, announced that Mr. Pryde had been informed of the intended hearing dates. The hearing was initially set to take place from next Monday until August 30.
However, Mr. Pryde revealed yesterday that he has been notified of a postponement of these dates. “I have been advised that the proposed tribunal hearing dates of 19 to 31 August 2024 have been vacated,” he stated.
He expressed disappointment that the tribunal, composed of three judges to address allegations against him, has not yet provided him with the necessary disclosures to fully comprehend the charges related to alleged overpayment of his superannuation.
Mr. Pryde was suspended from his position as DPP last April, a move he claims was due to being seen in conversation with the former Attorney General at a public event. A year later, a new allegation was added pertaining to his superannuation payments, which he contests.
“I am dismayed that I have still not received the required disclosures and that the tribunal has yet to set a hearing date. Additionally, my salary remains suspended five weeks after the Prime Minister instructed that it should still be paid,” he remarked.
Mr. Pryde noted that this situation is nearing its 17th month without resolution, with the Judicial Service Commission unwilling to address the issue concerning his salary suspension.
This publication has reached out to the Judicial Service Commission for a comment and is awaiting their response.