The Tribunal investigating the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, Christopher Pryde, for alleged misconduct has called several notable witnesses, including Justice Minister Siromi Turaga, Sugar Industry Minister Charan Jeath Singh, Assistant Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna, and the Permanent Secretary for Civil Service.
During the proceedings, Tunabuna expressed his concerns about Pryde being seen in public with former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, particularly given the ongoing investigation involving Sayed-Khaiyum. He described the situation as unprofessional, noting that the appearance of the two individuals speaking for over 30 minutes in a bar setting raised red flags, especially against the backdrop of media reports suggesting that a serious investigation by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) was underway.
Although he did not overhear their conversation, Tunabuna indicated that their serious facial expressions suggested the significance of their discussion. He emphasized that the photo he took of the encounter was submitted as evidence in the complaint lodged by the Justice Minister.
Roopesh Singh, representing the Fiji Law Society, pointed out that the witnesses provided their testimonies based on perceptions rather than firsthand knowledge of the conversation. He urged the Court to carefully consider the context of the evidence before reaching a conclusion.
The Tribunal has scheduled the next session for 10 AM tomorrow, indicating a continued commitment to thoroughly examining the details surrounding this significant case.
This investigation reflects a dedication to upholding integrity within the public service. As the process unfolds, it highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in governmental operations, which is vital in maintaining public trust. Observers may remain hopeful that the Tribunal’s thorough scrutiny will lead to a resolution that reinforces the rule of law and fosters confidence in the judicial system.
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