Fiji’s suspended chief prosecutor, Christopher Pryde, has disclosed that the government offered him NZ$150,000 in an effort to persuade him to resign and avoid an inquiry into alleged misconduct. Pryde, a New Zealander aged 59, declined the proposal and did not attend a recent hearing regarding the matter, citing financial constraints that hindered his ability to defend himself.
Pryde accused the government of attempting to remove him as part of an “ethno-national agenda,” suggesting that there is a systematic replacement of foreign individuals and Indo-Fijians by iTaukei (indigenous Fijians) in positions of power. He criticized the current hiring practices in Fiji, which he claims prioritize ethnic identity over merit.
The Judicial Services Committee (JSC) issued an out-of-court settlement offer to Pryde two months ago, which would have required him to resign as the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in exchange for the financial settlement. Pryde, however, expressed a desire to retain his integrity and reputation, stating that he wished to receive a letter from the President clearing him of any wrongdoing instead of accepting what he described as a “grubby payout.”
Since his suspension in April 2023—prompted by a conversation he had with the former Attorney General at a public event—Pryde has faced allegations related to receiving superannuation payments without JSC approval. His salary and benefits were halted by the government shortly thereafter.
Concerns have been raised by the Fiji Law Society regarding the inquiry process, emphasizing that it is not fair to conduct the inquiry without Pryde’s representation. The society’s president urged the tribunal to reconsider how the inquiry is proceeding, asserting the importance of procedural fairness in the legal process.
The tribunal will provide final recommendations to the President by December 23. Pryde has suggested that he anticipates being removed from his position, paving the way for his successor, Nancy Tikoisuva.
This situation highlights ongoing debates about governance, representation, and fairness in Fiji’s legal system, particularly regarding the treatment of individuals in positions of authority. As the inquiry progresses, there remains hope for transparency and fairness in addressing these serious allegations, potentially leading to a more equitable system for all Fijians.
In summary, Christopher Pryde has publicly rejected a settlement from the Fijian government and voiced concerns about the political motivations behind his suspension, while also highlighting issues of meritocracy and representation within Fiji’s institutions. The broader implications of this situation could prompt discussions about equity and justice in the legal profession in Fiji.
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