An investigation by the Attorney General’s office has concluded that payment vouchers submitted by Christopher Pryde, the suspended director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), lacked proper approvals. During the tribunal’s final day, Principal Accounts Officer Paula Naitoka provided insight into the investigation, stating that while it was not exhaustive, two payment vouchers dating back to January 2011 were identified, coinciding with Mr. Pryde’s appointment as DPP.
Naitoka noted that the duration of the investigation was limited, and while he could not confirm the completeness of payment records dating from 2007, he suggested there may have been additional records that were not thoroughly examined. He emphasized that the conditions governing Pryde’s transactions should have undergone more rigorous scrutiny by the Judicial Service Commission, indicating a potential flaw in the contract’s wording regarding permissible payment amounts.
Auditor General Finau Nagera supported Naitoka’s observations, stating that more clarification from the DPP regarding his payroll was necessary. She remarked that the payroll should provide specific amounts along with explanations for the calculations involved. Nagera pointed out that this practice seemed to have been occurring before Pryde took up the DPP position, yet the matter was never previously addressed in Parliament.
As the tribunal proceeds, the Fiji Law Society has until next Friday to present their submissions before a final report is submitted to President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu on December 23.
This investigation sheds light on the importance of accountability and transparency in public service roles. Although there are revelations of procedural lapses, the ongoing investigation indicates a commitment to ensuring that governance standards are upheld. The tribunal’s comprehensive inquiry and the upcoming report could lead to necessary reforms that strengthen oversight and enhance trust in public institutions.
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