Christopher Pryde has been reinstated as Fiji’s Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) after a suspension that garnered significant national attention. This reinstatement was confirmed by the Fiji Government through a social media statement.
Pryde’s suspension, which took place on April 13, 2023, was initiated by then-President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, following a discussion he had with the former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum at a diplomatic event on February 28 of that year. A tribunal was subsequently established to investigate the circumstances surrounding his suspension.
The current President, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, has received the tribunal’s findings and directed the reinstatement process for Mr. Pryde. The directives include restoring Mr. Pryde’s employment agreement from September 4, 2019, paying him the back salary and benefits owed to him, and ensuring he receives his official belongings to begin his duties again at the Office of the DPP.
This decision marks a significant resolution to one of the more high-profile legal disputes in Fiji, indicating a move towards stability in the country’s legal framework. While Mr. Pryde has not yet commented publicly on the decision, his return to the office is anticipated to reinforce the integrity of the prosecution service in Fiji.
Overall, the reinstatement of Mr. Pryde can be seen as a step toward legal transparency and institutional stability, highlighting the importance of due process in Fiji’s governance.
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