Fiji’s chief prosecutor, Christopher Pryde, who has been suspended from his position, has disclosed that the government proposed a secret settlement of NZ$150,000 in exchange for his resignation. This offer was made to avoid an inquiry into alleged misconduct attributed to him. Pryde, who is originally from New Zealand and has served as the director of public prosecutions since November 2011, declined the offer and opted not to attend a recent hearing, stating that he could not afford to defend himself.
Pryde has voiced his belief that this situation is part of an “ethno-national agenda” targeting non-ethnic Fijians, claiming a shift in hiring practices favoring iTaukei (indigenous Fijians) over others, including Indo-Fijians and foreign nationals. Accusations have been directed at the government for its alleged manipulation of the justice system and for not responding to inquiries about these claims from RNZ Pacific.
The Judicial Services Committee (JSC) had extended the settlement offer to Pryde two months prior, with an official letter detailing the arrangement, which would effectively end the inquiry if accepted. In announcing his decision to remain in his position, Pryde emphasized that he wants a formal acknowledgment of his integrity from the President instead of a “grubby payout.”
Pryde’s suspension came after he was seen conversing with former Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum at a public event. It was suggested that this conversation might represent misconduct, despite Pryde maintaining that he was unaware of any ongoing investigations.
The Fiji Law Society has raised concerns about the fairness and integrity of the inquiry process, especially given that Pryde is currently unrepresented legally due to financial constraints resulting from the suspension of his salary and benefits. The Tribunal overseeing his case has been advised about these issues, but a decision is anticipated by December 23, with a likelihood that Pryde will be removed from his role, replaced by acting chief prosecutor Nancy Tikoisuva.
Despite the challenges he faces, Pryde’s situation highlights significant issues regarding governance and legal integrity in Fiji. It serves as a reminder of the importance of procedural fairness in judicial inquiries.
The ongoing dialogue around this case may inspire greater scrutiny on governance and may lead to reforms aimed at ensuring fairness within the judicial system. As this situation unfolds, there remains a potential for positive change and the bolstering of civil rights protections in Fiji.
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