Former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum has clarified that his discussion with suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, Christopher Pryde, did not pertain to any investigations currently being conducted by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) against him. During his court testimony, Sayed-Khaiyum emphasized that the conversation revolved around personal matters related to their families, specifically mentioning their children, Emma (Pryde’s daughter) and Ibrahim (Sayed-Khaiyum’s son).
Sayed-Khaiyum refuted implications that the brief duration of his conversation with Pryde indicated any improper conduct. He stated that their exchange was not an isolated interaction; he engaged in conversations with various dignitaries, including the US and Japanese Ambassadors, Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad, and numerous Members of Parliament, stressing the social nature of the setting.
Addressing a photo presented as evidence by Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga, Sayed-Khaiyum pointed out that it was a close-up image that did not accurately depict the larger context of the gathering. He maintained that he was not able to pinpoint the exact timeframe of his discussion with Pryde but asserted that it was more than a simple greeting as they were actively engaging with other guests.
When questioned about allegations suggesting that the two discussed Sayed-Khaiyum’s case, he firmly denied such claims, expressing offense at the assumption.
Regarding a separate allegation of improper superannuation payments to Pryde, Sayed-Khaiyum stated that matters concerning the determination of remuneration for the DPP fall under the jurisdiction of the Judicial Services Commission (JSC). He claimed that he had minimal involvement in these financial aspects.
The ongoing tribunal is examining allegations of misconduct and has the authority to recommend the removal of Pryde from his position as DPP. It was highlighted that back in February 2023, during a period when CID was actively investigating Sayed-Khaiyum, he and Pryde were seen conversing for over 45 minutes.
The court proceedings, presided over by Justices Anare Tuilevuka, Samuela Qica, and Chaitanya Lakshman, have been adjourned until tomorrow at 10 AM.
This situation underscores the complexities of legal and ethical standards within governmental roles, especially in light of ongoing investigations. As this case continues, it highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in public service, reminding officials of the ethical obligations they carry in their positions. The developments in the tribunal could establish crucial precedents regarding the conduct of public office holders.
Summary: Former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum testified that his conversation with suspended DPP Christopher Pryde was personal and unrelated to any investigation against him. He refuted claims of misconduct, commenting on the JSC’s role in remuneration decisions and stating that accusations about his interactions were unfounded. Ongoing tribunal proceedings are assessing these allegations, emphasizing the need for integrity within public office.
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