Christopher Pryde has been reinstated as Fiji’s Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) after more than two years since his suspension, which garnered significant attention across the nation. The Fijian government announced this decision through a statement on Facebook.
Mr. Pryde was initially suspended on April 13, 2023, by then-President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, a move that stemmed from a conversation he had with former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum at a social event on February 28, 2023. Following his suspension, a three-member tribunal was established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the matter. President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu later received the tribunal’s report and communicated the decision for Mr. Pryde to resume his duties.
As part of the reinstatement, the President’s directives include the immediate reinstatement of Mr. Pryde’s employment agreement from September 4, 2019, along with the prompt repayment of his unpaid salary and benefits. Additionally, he is required to report to the Judicial Services Commission to receive his official items, such as his laptop, mobile phone, and office keys, before returning to the Office of the DPP.
This decision marks an important resolution to one of Fiji’s notable legal controversies. While Mr. Pryde has not yet commented publicly, his reinstatement is expected to bolster confidence in the integrity of the judicial processes in Fiji.
In summary, the reinstatement of Christopher Pryde as DPP reflects a positive step towards resolving legal disputes within Fiji’s justice system, potentially fostering greater trust in public institutions moving forward.
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