The President of Fiji, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, has suspended the salary and benefits of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Christopher Pryde, amid public backlash surrounding his extended absence from duty. Since his reinstatement in January 2025, Pryde has continued to be absent, drawing a taxpayer-funded salary exceeding $250,000 without just cause.
In a letter dated July 25, 2025, addressed to Mr. Pryde and the Judicial Services Commission (JSC), the President clarified that the suspension of Pryde’s remuneration comes as a result of his failure to return to work after being directed to do so following the revocation of his prior suspension in January. The letter cites Section 117(5) of the Constitution and notes that the suspension will remain in effect until further notice.
Reports indicate that Pryde’s absence has lasted months, with his expected return initially set for January 20, 2025. However, Pryde has attributed his ongoing absence to unresolved complaints lodged with the JSC. He claims to have prepared to resume his duties but fears another abrupt suspension without proper communication from the JSC regarding the status of allegations against him.
The JSC recently issued a new letter to Pryde, indicating an active involvement in the matter. Despite these developments, Acting FICAC Commissioner Lavi Rokoika has declined to comment on ongoing investigations involving Pryde, leaving the situation precarious.
This ongoing situation emphasizes the complexities within Fiji’s legal framework, calling attention to the need for improved accountability and transparency. There is cautious optimism among stakeholders that resolving these concerns could ultimately instigate necessary reforms within the judicial system, reinforcing public confidence in legal institutions.
The commitment of involved parties, including Pryde’s readiness to engage with the JSC, signals a potential path toward clarity and resolution, fostering a restoration of integrity within the Office of the DPP and laying groundwork for enhanced governance practices in the future.
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