Christopher Pryde, the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, has firmly stated that he will neither resign nor attend the upcoming tribunal hearing scheduled for December 2. The suspension of his salary has left him unable to afford legal representation, which he argues hampers his ability to defend himself properly.
Pryde expressed significant concern over the fairness of the tribunal process, questioning how a hearing can be just when he has been deprived of the necessary means to prepare his defense. He argued that his situation violates the President’s directive to ensure fairness in the tribunal proceedings and contravenes international labor conventions that Fiji is party to.
He criticized the actions of Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo and the Judicial Services Commission (JSC), which he believes endorsed his salary suspension, potentially interfering with the tribunal’s proceedings. He noted that Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has publicly supported his claim for salary reinstatement, suggesting that the public would agree with his perspective.
Pryde emphasized his unwillingness to be intimidated into resigning, stating that he should have the right to defend himself adequately at the tribunal. He has indicated that he would be prepared to resume legal counsel and engage in the tribunal if his salary and contractual entitlements were restored.
The chairperson of the JSC, Mr. Temo, acknowledged the tribunal’s upcoming proceedings but remained tight-lipped about the details, citing the ongoing nature of the tribunal.
Summary: Christopher Pryde, the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, refuses to resign or attend a tribunal hearing due to concerns over the unfair suspension of his salary, which has left him unable to afford legal representation. He argues for the right to defend himself adequately and expresses dissatisfaction with the actions of the JSC and the Acting Chief Justice.
This situation can be seen as an opportunity for legal and institutional processes to be scrutinized to ensure fairness and justice for all parties involved. The ongoing dialogue surrounding his case underscores the importance of equitable treatment within the legal system, which could lead to reforms that enhance transparency and fairness in similar circumstances in the future.
Leave a comment