Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has underscored that the decision to initiate another tribunal to investigate claims against Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde lies outside his authority. He clarified that this responsibility rests with the Judicial Legal Service Commission and is not under the jurisdiction of the Cabinet or his office. This assertion follows Mr. Pryde’s comments suggesting the potential formation of a new tribunal.

Rabuka stated, “If there’s another tribunal, it will not be my responsibility; it’s outside my area of responsibility.” He also addressed concerns regarding the financial implications of such tribunals, acknowledging that they are part of standard governmental processes and indicating that they would proceed if warranted. Furthermore, he emphasized the necessity of safeguarding classified information, warning that unauthorized disclosures could lead to investigations into breaches of confidentiality.

This current discussion arises in the context of a previous tribunal that successfully exonerated Pryde from misconduct allegations, which restored him to his post along with previously denied salary and benefits. The Prime Minister’s recognition of the tribunal’s rigorous inquiry reflects a commitment to due process and transparency, which are vital for rebuilding public trust in Fiji’s legal institutions.

As Fiji navigates these challenging dynamics, Rabuka’s strong emphasis on clear roles and responsibilities within the judicial framework presents a hopeful outlook for the nation’s legal landscape. His statements not only reflect ongoing accountability efforts but also contribute to enhancing integrity and transparency within Fiji’s governance structure. The developments indicate a positive trajectory for the legal system as it aims to reinforce public confidence in judicial processes.