The Assistant Secretary of the Judicial Services Commission (JSC), Zarina Bi, recently testified in court regarding the superannuation payments made to the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, Christopher Pryde. Bi confirmed that there are no authorization records for the monthly payment of US$1,000 designated for Pryde, highlighting that his employment contract does not specify any amount for this superannuation.
Bi disclosed that the JSC had reached out to Pryde, asking him to provide details about who authorized these payments. This inquiry was initiated by Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo, also the JSC Chairperson. She clarified that Pryde’s base salary is set at $250,000 and emphasized that payments should originate from the JSC, following recommendations from the Attorney-General’s office and with approval from the President, in accordance with constitutional mandates.
Fiji Law Society representative Laurel Vaurasi questioned Bi about her tenure as Assistant Secretary since 2013 and whether any records existed regarding these payments. Bi stated that the only documentation missing was the authorization for the monthly US$1,000 sent to Pryde. Justice Tuilevuka further noted that this payment appears to date back to Pryde’s appointment as Solicitor-General in 2007, prompting inquiries into the circumstances surrounding this arrangement.
Bi maintained that JSC records were well-organized and accessible, including those at the Chief Justice’s office, and indicated that Pryde had been requested to provide more information.
The tribunal is currently investigating allegations of misconduct and may recommend Pryde’s removal as DPP to the President. Additional context includes an incident on February 28, 2023, when Pryde reportedly spoke with Sayed-Khaiyum for over 45 minutes while the Criminal Investigation Department was probing him, although this case is ongoing.
In a time of heightened scrutiny over governmental processes, this case underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the handling of public funds. The ongoing proceedings may lead to clearer guidelines and stricter adherence to protocols to prevent similar situations in the future.
Summary: The JSC Assistant Secretary revealed in court that there are no authorizations for a US$1,000 monthly superannuation payment to suspended DPP Christopher Pryde. An inquiry is underway to determine the legitimacy of this payment, with potential implications for Pryde’s position. The case highlights the critical need for strict compliance with governmental procedures regarding public remuneration.
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