Fiji’s suspended chief prosecutor, Christopher Pryde, has disclosed that the government secretly proposed a NZ$150,000 payoff for his resignation, aiming to escape an investigation into his alleged misconduct. The 59-year-old New Zealander rejected the offer, stating he was not in a financial position to defend himself at a recent hearing regarding the allegations.
Pryde has accused the government of attempting to displace foreign influence and Indo-Fijians to favor iTaukei individuals (indigenous Fijians) in positions of power, asserting that recruitment practices in Fiji prioritize ethnic background over merit. He raised these concerns in a recent interview with RNZ Pacific, following his suspension, which he claims is part of a larger agenda.
An official letter from the Judicial Services Committee (JSC) offered Pryde this settlement two months ago, indicating it would end any further legal proceedings against him if he resigned immediately. However, Pryde insists on maintaining his position, stating he hasn’t done anything wrong and desires a letter from the President to vindicate his reputation rather than a questionable payout.
Pryde was appointed the director of public prosecutions in November 2011 but has been on paid suspension since April 2023 due to allegations associated with a conversation with former Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum at a public event. The conversation’s context raised concerns about Pryde’s adherence to official protocols regarding ongoing investigations, though he has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Further complicating matters, Pryde faces allegations for receiving superannuation payments without JSC approval, resulting in the suspension of his salary and all contractual benefits. The Fiji Law Society has expressed its objections to the hearing process, highlighting concerns about fairness, particularly given Pryde’s absence due to financial constraints.
The tribunal overseeing his case is expected to deliver its findings to President Naiqama Lalabalavu by December 23. Despite the unfolding events, Pryde already anticipates his dismissal and anticipates that Nancy Tikoisuva will succeed him as acting chief prosecutor. He has expressed skepticism about the appeal process due to its potentially protracted nature.
This situation underscores ongoing tensions within Fiji regarding governance, ethnicity, and the role of transparency and fairness in judicial proceedings. For those observing the situation, it calls for a renewed focus on the integrity of legal processes and the importance of equitable representation across all sectors of society, possibly fostering a more inclusive environment in Fiji’s political landscape moving forward.
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