Shiri Gounder, the Permanent Secretary for Finance, clarified during a tribunal investigation concerning Pryde that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) was responsible for directly handling superannuation payments to the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions. These payments were carried out through manual telegraphic transfers as they were classified as offshore transactions.
Gounder explained that the ODPP processed these superannuation payments autonomously, without the intervention of the Ministry of Finance. He pointed out a specific clause in the employment contract of the DPP, which provides the officer the option to continue contributions to home superannuation funds, participate in the local superannuation scheme under the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF), or choose another superannuation fund at their discretion.
He further stated that the Ministry of Finance had been responsible for handling salary payments to the DPP in accordance with their contractual agreements, which were stipulated between the DPP and the President. Gounder emphasized that all civil servant payments, including salaries and other benefits, are managed following their contractual terms and the mandated FNPF contribution rates.
Additionally, he noted that the DPP holds the authority to independently manage any funds that have been allocated by Parliament for the ODPP. The tribunal has announced that the matter will be adjourned for further examination at a later date.
This incident underscores the importance of financial accountability and transparency within government agencies. It serves as a reminder of the need for clear guidelines regarding the administration of public funds and the responsibilities of various offices involved. The upcoming proceedings of the tribunal might shed more light on these practices and potentially lead to reforms that ensure more rigorous oversight and management of public funds.
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