A Tribunal of three members has investigated allegations of misconduct against Christopher Pryde, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The Tribunal, led by Justice Anare Tuilevuka along with Justices Chaitanya Lakshman and Samuela Qica, reached a unanimous decision concluding that the allegations were not substantiated. Following their findings, they recommended to His Excellency, the President, that Pryde should not be removed from office.
On December 23, 2024, the Tribunal submitted their report to His Excellency Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu. After reviewing the report and consulting with advisors, the President praised the Tribunal for their diligent service and the significant jurisprudence they established regarding the definition of “misbehaviour,” a term not explicitly defined in the Constitution.
This report is particularly noteworthy as it sets a precedent that will guide the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) in handling complaints against not only judicial officers but also the DPP and other quasi-judicial officials. Additionally, the Tribunal’s report emphasizes the necessity for clear guiding policies to manage complaints in the absence of formal regulations.
To facilitate Pryde’s return to office, his suspension from April 13, 2023, will be lifted, allowing his agreement with the government to take immediate effect. He will also receive repayment for his unpaid salary and benefits. Pryde is expected to report to the Chairperson of the JSC to retrieve his official belongings and resume his responsibilities.
The report will be made publicly available online as part of transparency measures stipulated in Section 112(6) of the Constitution.
This decision not only reinstates a vital position within the legal system but also underscores the importance of accountability and clarity in the conduct of judicial proceedings. The establishment of clear policies to evaluate complaints represents a commitment to uphold integrity and transparency in the judicial process, benefiting the legal landscape in Fiji.
Overall, this outcome can be seen as a positive step toward reinforcing judicial stability and integrity, ensuring that due process is followed while also taking necessary actions to prevent any future misinterpretations of conduct among judicial officials.
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