Former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum has refuted claims that his recent conversation with suspended Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde was linked to an ongoing Criminal Investigations Department inquiry into his conduct. During the initial day of Pryde’s tribunal hearing at the Court of Appeal in Suva, Sayed-Khaiyum clarified that their discussion was personal, focusing on matters concerning their children, rather than any legal issues.
The exchange between Sayed-Khaiyum and Pryde took place on February 28, 2023, at a diplomatic event, a time when Sayed-Khaiyum was under investigation, with the case file already in the hands of the DPP’s office. Pryde has been on paid suspension since April 2023, pending a tribunal’s investigation into alleged misconduct and has refused to appear unless his salary is reinstated.
Taking the witness stand, Sayed-Khaiyum acknowledged he had spoken with several dignitaries that evening, not just Pryde. He contested the suggestion that the photo submitted as evidence by Justice Minister Siromi Turaga implied an exclusive discussion between him and Pryde, pointing out that it did not capture those present around them.
When pressed regarding payments related to Pryde’s superannuation, Sayed-Khaiyum emphasized that such matters are the jurisdiction of the Judicial Services Commission and that he had only a limited role in such determinations. He noted that accurate record-keeping regarding payments to constitutional officeholders lies with the Office of the Attorney-General and the Judicial Services Commission.
Sayed-Khaiyum’s defense was further bolstered by the revelation that other officials, including Justice Minister Turaga, have faced investigations as well. He expressed his intent to address what he perceives as misuse of power within the DPP’s office.
In contrast, Minister Turaga described the aforementioned conversation as “unbecoming and unethical,” highlighting its impropriety given the ongoing investigation against Sayed-Khaiyum. He conveyed concerns that the nature and duration of the conversation, which lasted over 40 minutes, raised ethical issues, especially considering their established professional history. Turaga’s sentiments were shared after Pryde expressed regret in a letter of apology following the incident.
The case is set to continue with further hearings, as the tribunal seeks clarity on the involvement of both Sayed-Khaiyum and Pryde in light of their ongoing investigations.
This situation underscores ongoing tensions within the Fijian legal and political landscapes, highlighting the importance of transparency and ethical conduct among public officials. It’s essential for investigations into any alleged misconduct to be thorough and impartial, ensuring accountability and restoring public confidence in the judicial system. In the long run, such scrutiny may lead to a more resilient legal framework and better governance.
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