For over two years, Christopher Pryde held on to his guiding principle: “Keep Calm and Carry On.” His perseverance has paid off, as he was officially reinstated as Fiji’s Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) following a suspension that attracted significant public interest.
The Fiji Government announced this decision via a Facebook statement at 6:21 PM yesterday. Mr. Pryde was initially suspended on April 13, 2023, by the then-President, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, under section 112(4) of the 2013 Constitution. This suspension stemmed from a conversation he had with former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum during a social event hosted by the Japanese Ambassador on February 28, 2023.
A tribunal consisting of three members was established to investigate the circumstances surrounding his suspension. Following its report, President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu contacted Mr. Pryde with instructions for his return to duty. These directives included:
– Immediate reinstatement of the September 4, 2019, Agreement of Service.
– Swift repayment of Mr. Pryde’s unpaid salary and benefits.
– Reporting to the Judicial Services Commission to collect his official belongings, including his laptop, mobile phone, and office keys, before heading back to the Office of the DPP.
This development signifies a resolution to one of Fiji’s notable legal disputes, showcasing a commitment to fairness and due process in the judicial system. While Mr. Pryde has not yet responded to requests for comments, his reinstatement marks a hopeful step toward stability within the legal framework of Fiji.
This reinstatement could be seen as a positive outcome for the governance of justice in Fiji, promoting confidence in the legal system’s ability to rectify issues and ensure accountability.
Leave a comment