The Acting Chief Justice and Chairperson of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), Salesi Temo, has labeled the monthly superannuation payment of $1,000 to the suspended Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Christopher Pryde as “theft.” His statements came during the third day of Pryde’s tribunal hearing held at the Veiuto Court Complex.
The tribunal is investigating two main allegations against Pryde: a photograph with former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum taken at a diplomatic event on February 28, 2023, and the unauthorized superannuation payments of $1,000 per month, which have reportedly accumulated to over FJ$288,000 since 2012.
Justice Temo refuted media portrayals of the payments as merely over-compensation, asserting they represent outright theft. He explained that the JSC found no evidence of authorization for these payments, emphasizing that any such payments should involve consultations with the Attorney-General’s office and require the President’s approval, which did not happen in this case. The payments were discontinued in July 2023 as investigations began. Temo further stated that Pryde could not justify these transactions through his contract.
Concerning the photograph with Sayed-Khaiyum, Temo remarked that it was imprudent for Pryde to associate with someone involved in ongoing political controversies, highlighting that appearances can convey significant meaning, regardless of the actual content of conversations. He insisted on the importance of maintaining neutrality for judicial and office holders, both in professional and personal life.
In response to Pryde’s claims of financial strain due to his salary suspension, Justice Temo rejected the argument, pointing out that the Constitution allows for legal aid or self-representation.
The tribunal proceedings are set to continue today.
This case underscores the critical importance of accountability in public office and the adherence to legal frameworks surrounding financial transactions. The outcomes of this tribunal could play a significant role in reinforcing standards of conduct within the legal system, fostering public trust in its integrity.
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