The Acting Chief Justice and Chairperson of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), Salesi Temo, referred to the suspended Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Christopher Pryde’s monthly superannuation payment of US$1,000 as “theft” during the third day of Pryde’s tribunal hearing at the Veiuto Court Complex. Justice Temo’s testimony came as part of the inquiry into two main allegations against Pryde: a photograph taken with former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum at a diplomatic event on February 28, 2023, and unauthorized superannuation payments totaling over FJ$288,000 since 2012.
Justice Temo criticized media descriptions of the payments as over-compensation, asserting that there was no record of any authorization for these transactions. He stated that all such payments require consultation with the Attorney-General’s office and approval from the President, both of which were ignored in this situation. The payments were halted in July 2023 when investigations began. Temo maintained that Pryde’s contractual defense was inadequate to validate the payments.
Commenting on the photograph with Sayed-Khaiyum, Justice Temo pointed out that it was imprudent for Pryde to associate with a figure embroiled in political controversies, emphasizing that even a photograph can convey significant implications about a person’s character.
In response to Pryde’s claims of financial hardship due to the suspension of his salary, Justice Temo dismissed these concerns, pointing out that the Constitution allows for legal aid or self-representation, implying that Pryde’s financial distress was unfounded.
The tribunal proceedings are set to resume today, further determining the outcome of this ongoing case.
This article highlights the importance of ethical conduct and accountability among those in public office, reinforcing the principle that adherence to legal protocols is vital. As the tribunal continues, it offers a chance for clarity and resolution on these serious allegations, potentially restoring integrity to the office and confidence in the justice system.
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