Fiji’s suspended Chief Prosecutor, Christopher Pryde, has disclosed that the government covertly proposed a NZ$150,000 payment if he chose to resign and avoid an inquiry regarding alleged “misconduct.” Pryde, who is originally from New Zealand, decisively turned down the offer, citing financial constraints that hindered his ability to defend himself adequately during last week’s hearing.
The suspended prosecutor expressed concerns about a perceived ethno-national agenda behind his suspension, indicating that the government is prioritizing indigenous Fijians over foreigners and Indo-Fijians in positions of power. Pryde stated that hiring practices in Fiji do not adhere to meritocracy, but rather, seem to be focused on favoring the iTaukei population.
The Judicial Services Committee (JSC) initially proposed the out-of-court settlement to Pryde two months ago, stating that accepting the offer would result in a full and final settlement, eliminating any potential legal claims Pryde might have against them. Nevertheless, Pryde stated he would prefer a letter of exoneration from the President confirming he did not engage in any wrongdoing, rather than accepting what he described as a “grubby payout” in exchange for his resignation.
Pryde was appointed Director of Public Prosecutions in November 2011 but faced suspension in April 2023, following allegations stemming from a conversation he had with former Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. The suspension raised significant concerns regarding the proceedings as both the Fijian Law Society and Pryde himself expressed doubts about the fairness and transparency of the inquiry process.
The tribunal is set to deliver its final recommendations by December 23, with Pryde anticipating his removal from office and the appointment of acting Chief Prosecutor Nancy Tikoisuva as his successor.
This case underscores the complexities and challenges within Fiji’s legal and political systems. The concerns regarding transparency and fairness in the inquiry emphasize the importance of due process, which is fundamental to any democratic institution. As the situation evolves, there is hope that a fair resolution will be reached, allowing all parties to move forward and restore confidence in the judicial process in Fiji.
Summary: Christopher Pryde, Fiji’s suspended Chief Prosecutor, revealed that he was secretly offered NZ$150,000 to resign to avoid an inquiry into alleged misconduct. He refused the offer and expressed concerns about a government agenda favoring indigenous Fijians. The tribunal’s final recommendations are expected by December 23, while the Fijian Law Society has raised concerns about the fairness of the ongoing inquiry process.
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