Fiji’s suspended chief prosecutor, Christopher Pryde, has alleged that the government offered him NZ$150,000 in secret to resign and avoid an inquiry into claims of “misbehavior.” The 59-year-old New Zealander declined this offer and chose not to attend a related hearing last week, citing financial constraints that hindered his ability to defend himself.
Pryde expressed concerns that the government’s actions are part of a broader “ethno-national agenda” aimed at replacing foreign nationals and Indo-Fijians with iTaukei (indigenous Fijians) in positions of power. He criticized the recruitment practices in Fiji, suggesting that meritocracy is disregarded in favor of prioritizing indigenous individuals in leadership roles.
The Judicial Services Committee (JSC) had sent Pryde an out-of-court settlement offer, contingent on his immediate resignation, which Pryde saw as an attempt to permanently tarnish his reputation without any acknowledgment of his innocence. He stated that he desired a public letter from the President absolving him of any wrongdoing rather than a “grubby payout” to quietly depart from his position.
Pryde has faced scrutiny since his suspension began in April 2023, after being seen conversing with the former Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum at an event. The government has charged him with misconduct, suggesting that he may have breached protocol regarding an ongoing police investigation.
The Fiji Law Society has expressed concerns about the fairness of the inquiry process, emphasizing Pryde’s constitutional rights to due process. The Society declined an invitation from the Tribunal to assist in the hearing, indicating mistrust in the proceedings being conducted in Pryde’s absence, especially as he had to withdraw representation due to a lack of funds after his salary was cut off.
The tribunal is expected to deliver its final recommendations to President Naiqama Lalabalavu by December 23, although Pryde has indicated he anticipates his removal from office.
This situation highlights the ongoing challenges in Fiji’s legal and political system, reflecting deeper societal issues related to governance, representation, and the treatment of foreign professionals. As discussions continue around this case, there remains hope that this situation can lead to a more transparent and fair judicial process in the future, ultimately benefiting the integrity of Fiji’s legal framework.
In summary, Christopher Pryde has alleged that Fiji’s government attempted to persuade him to resign with a financial offer amid misconduct inquiries, raising concerns about political motives and fairness in the judicial process.
Leave a comment