Former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum has rejected claims that his discussion with suspended Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Christopher Pryde was linked to an ongoing investigation by the Criminal Investigations Department. During the first day of Pryde’s tribunal hearing at the Court of Appeal in Suva, Sayed-Khaiyum emphasized that their conversation was purely personal, revolving around their families, particularly their children, Emma Pryde and Ibrahim Sayed-Khaiyum.
On February 28, 2023, Sayed-Khaiyum was photographed speaking with Pryde at a diplomatic event, coinciding with the investigation into Sayed-Khaiyum, whose case file had already been submitted to the DPP’s office. Pryde, who has been suspended on full pay since April 2023 over accusations of “misbehaviour,” has stated he will not attend the tribunal unless his full salary is reinstated.
While taking the stand, Sayed-Khaiyum noted he had conversed not only with Pryde but also with various dignitaries present at the event, contending that a photograph submitted as evidence misleadingly suggested he was in an exclusive discussion with Pryde. He could not recall the length of their conversation and reiterated that they did not touch upon any allegations concerning his case.
Addressing accusations concerning a US$1000 monthly superannuation payment to Pryde without proper approvals, Sayed-Khaiyum claimed it was a matter for the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) to investigate, asserting he played a minimal role in these determinations. He pointed out that the JSC, with records managed by the Office of the Attorney-General, is responsible for deciding DPP remuneration.
Furthermore, Sayed-Khaiyum remarked on the Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga’s own ties to investigations involving the Fiji Independent Commission against Corruption (FICAC), noting that mutual acquaintanceship raised questions about the propriety of Turaga’s actions.
Minister for Justice Turaga corroborated that both Pryde and Sayed-Khaiyum were seen conversing away from other guests during the Japanese Emperor’s birthday celebration, labeling their interaction as “unbecoming and unethical.” He noted the sensitive nature of the ongoing investigation, which compounded his concerns regarding their private dialogue.
Pryde later expressed regret over his decision to speak with Sayed-Khaiyum during an active investigation and subsequently issued an apology to Turaga. This incident was brought to the attention of the Prime Minister and ultimately led to a formal complaint being lodged with the JSC.
The case will reconvene today.
This ongoing tribunal could signify a pivotal moment for Fiji’s legal and political landscape, underscoring the importance of ethical conduct among officials, particularly in sensitive situations. The revelation of the initial private conversation and the subsequent fallout highlights the need for transparency and accountability at all levels of governance. As the hearing progresses, it may foster a renewed commitment to ethical standards within public office.
Leave a comment