The Acting Chief Justice and Chairperson of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), Salesi Temo, has characterized the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Christopher Pryde’s monthly superannuation payment of US$1000 as “theft.” This statement was made during the third day of Pryde’s tribunal hearing at the Veiuto Court Complex.
The tribunal is currently investigating two main allegations against Pryde: first, a photograph he took with former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum at a diplomatic event on February 28, 2023; second, the unauthorized superannuation payments amounting to US$1,000 (FJ$2,277.45) per month, which have reportedly accrued to over FJ$288,000 since 2012. Justice Temo challenged media portrayals of these payments as over-compensation, firmly alleging that they constitute outright theft.
He explained that the JSC’s inquiries found no evidence of authorization for these payments, emphasizing that any such transaction would typically require consultation with the Attorney-General’s office and approval from the President, neither of which occurred in this case. Payments were halted in July 2023, concurrently with the start of investigations. Justice Temo remarked that Pryde’s defense regarding his contract did not sufficiently justify the payments made.
Concerning the photograph with Mr. Sayed-Khaiyum, Justice Temo noted the imprudence of appearing alongside someone embroiled in political controversy, asserting that even without knowledge of their conversation, a photograph can convey significant implications. He underscored the ethical obligation for judicial office holders to maintain neutrality both in their official capacity and personal interactions.
When addressing Pryde’s concerns about financial hardships resulting from his salary suspension, Justice Temo deemed these claims unfounded, highlighting that the Constitution allows for legal aid or self-representation.
The tribunal proceedings are set to continue today.
This case underscores the importance of ethical standards and accountability among public officials. It serves as a reminder that transparency and proper authorization are critical components of public service, ultimately aiming to maintain public trust in judicial systems. Future developments in this tribunal may enhance our understanding of ethical governance in the legal framework.
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