Fiji’s suspended chief prosecutor, Christopher Pryde, has publicly disclosed that the government covertly proposed a payment of NZ$150,000 for him to resign and evade an investigation into alleged misconduct. The 59-year-old New Zealander declined the offer and has expressed his inability to defend himself during the inquiry.
Pryde accused the government of pursuing a strategy rooted in an ethno-national agenda, suggesting a shift in power dynamics that favors indigenous Fijians (iTaukei) over other communities, including Indo-Fijians and foreign nationals. He believes the hiring practices in Fiji are not based on qualifications or merit but rather on ethnicity.
The Judicial Services Committee (JSC) had initially presented Pryde with a settlement proposal two months ago. This offer included his resignation as part of a deal that would conclude any legal proceedings against the JSC, effectively barring him from future lawsuits. Pryde, however, stated that he preferred to clear his name with an official letter from the President affirming his innocence rather than accept a payout to quietly exit.
Suspended since April 2023, Pryde faced scrutiny after being seen conversing with former Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum at a public event, raising concerns about potential misconduct related to an ongoing police investigation. Pryde firmly maintains that he has never accessed the relevant police file.
In a further twist, he was charged in April with improperly receiving superannuation payments, leading to the termination of his salary and benefits by the Fijian government.
The Fiji Law Society has voiced concerns regarding the ongoing inquiry process, especially since Pryde was not represented by counsel due to financial constraints linked to his suspended salary. The society’s president highlighted the potential unfairness of conducting such inquiries in Pryde’s absence and emphasized the need for procedural fairness as outlined in the Constitution.
The tribunal overseeing Pryde’s case is expected to submit its recommendations to President Naiqama Lalabalavu by December 23, with Pryde anticipating his removal from his role.
This situation highlights significant concerns regarding judicial independence and the treatment of public officials in Fiji. It underscores the importance of transparency and fairness in legal proceedings, emphasizing the need for a judicial system that is equitable and accountable to all. Despite the challenges, there remains hope that this case could lead to reforms that bolster institutional integrity and uphold the principles of justice in Fiji.
Summary: Christopher Pryde, Fiji’s suspended chief prosecutor, has revealed a secret financial offer from the government for him to resign, which he believes is part of a broader ethno-national agenda. Accused of misconduct related to his discussions with a former attorney general, Pryde is facing scrutiny for perceived unjust practices in Fiji’s judicial processes. The upcoming tribunal recommendations could pave the way for discussions about judicial reforms and the need for fair treatment within the legal system.
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