An investigation by the Attorney General’s office has revealed that payment vouchers issued to Christopher Pryde, the suspended director of Public Prosecutions, lacked proper approvals. This information was presented by Principal Accounts Officer Paula Naitoka during the final day of a tribunal investigating allegations regarding Pryde’s unapproved payments.
Naitoka explained that while the investigation was limited in scope, they were able to identify two payment vouchers dating back to January 2011, coinciding with Pryde’s appointment as DPP. He acknowledged that their investigative timeframe was constricted and could not confirm whether complete records of Pryde’s payment history from 2007 were available, asserting there may have been additional records that had not been reviewed.
Naitoka suggested that the Judicial Service Commission should have revisited the clause allowing Pryde to process these transactions, indicating a deficiency in how the contract was drafted, particularly regarding quantifying permissible amounts.
Auditor General Finau Nagera echoed Naitoka’s findings, stating that further clarification should have been sought from the DPP concerning his payroll to ensure transparency and accuracy regarding the amounts received. She noted that these concerns had only been brought to their attention following the investigation request, and recognized that Pryde had been practicing similar payment actions prior to his tenure as DPP without any issues raised in Parliament at that time.
As the tribunal proceeds, the Fiji Law Society has until next Friday to submit their statements before the final report is presented to President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu on December 23.
This investigation highlights the importance of accountability and thorough oversight within public institutions. Moving forward, it may encourage an enhanced focus on financial governance and transparency within governmental operations, fostering a more robust legal framework to prevent similar issues in the future.
Summary: An investigation revealed that Christopher Pryde, a suspended director, received payments without proper approval, prompting calls for improved oversight within the country’s legal framework. The final report is due to be presented to the President by December 23.
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