The tribunal hearing regarding the misconduct allegations against Christopher Pryde, the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, is taking place today at the Court of Appeal in Veiuto, Suva. Key witnesses set to provide testimony include Charan Jeath Singh, the Minister for Sugar, along with Shiri Goundar, the Permanent Secretary for Finance, Justice Salesi Temo, the Acting Chief Justice, and the Secretary for the Judicial Services Commission.
The tribunal is focused on assessing the allegations of misbehavior, which may lead to a recommendation for Pryde’s removal as DPP to be presented to His Excellency the President. Notable points under consideration include conversations Pryde had with Sayed-Khaiyum on February 28, 2023, just as the Criminal Investigation Department was probing him, and the payment of $1,000 per month as superannuation to Pryde without proper authorization from the Judicial Services Commission, the Office of the Attorney-General, and the Office of the President.
The proceedings are presided over by Justices Anare Tuilevuka, Samuela Qica, and Chaitanya Lakshman, and will reconvene at noon.
This ongoing hearing reflects the commitment to upholding justice and ensuring accountability within public offices, marking a significant step in safeguarding the integrity of the judicial system. The outcomes of such proceedings can serve as a foundational example of ethical standards in public service and governance.
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