The Acting Chief Justice and Chairperson of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), Salesi Temo, has labeled the suspended Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Christopher Pryde’s monthly superannuation payment of US$1000 as an act of “theft.” This statement was made during Pryde’s tribunal hearing at the Veiuto Court Complex, where Justice Temo was the concluding witness on the third day of proceedings.
The tribunal is examining two main allegations against Pryde: his unapproved superannuation payments and a photograph taken with former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum at a diplomatic event on February 28, 2023. According to Justice Temo, the investigation by the JSC found no authorization for Pryde’s payments, which have reportedly amounted to over FJ$288,000 since 2012. He asserted that necessary approvals from the Attorney-General’s office and the President were not obtained for these payments, which were halted in July 2023 as investigations began.
Justice Temo rejected media claims that the payments constituted mere over-compensation, stating they were outright theft. He also noted that Pryde’s defense based on his contract lacked validity in light of the severity of the allegations. Additionally, concerning the photograph with Sayed-Khaiyum, Justice Temo indicated that it was imprudent for Pryde to associate with someone involved in political disputes, emphasizing that even an image can convey significant implications about one’s judgment and impartiality.
In response to Pryde’s claims of financial distress due to the suspension of his salary, Justice Temo found these assertions to be unfounded, pointing out provisions in the Constitution for legal aid or self-representation.
The tribunal is set to continue today, as it addresses the serious charges against Pryde.
This case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in public offices. As the tribunal progresses, it serves as a reminder of the ethical obligations that public figures must uphold, ensuring that trust in the judicial system is maintained. The ongoing proceedings could foster a greater awareness of the need for stringent oversight in government operations, ultimately benefiting the public by reinforcing accountability measures.
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