Christopher Pryde, the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, has made it clear that he will not resign nor participate in the tribunal hearing set for December 2. He terms his suspension as “unfair,” arguing that the halt on his salary has made it impossible for him to secure legal representation.
In a statement regarding the tribunal’s correspondence from November 21, Mr. Pryde expressed concerns about the fairness of the proceedings, stating, “How can a hearing be just and fair when I have been deprived of the means to adequately defend myself?” He further emphasized that continuing with the hearing under these conditions goes against the principles outlined by the tribunal.
Mr. Pryde has been critical of the Acting Chief Justice, Salesi Temo, and the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) for endorsing the decision to suspend his salary in July, alleging that such actions interfere with the tribunal’s processes. He noted that Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has publicly supported his call for salary reinstatement, suggesting that there is broader recognition of the issues at stake.
Despite the pressure he feels, Mr. Pryde remains resolute, stating, “I will not be intimidated.” He insists that the right to defend himself is fundamental and highlighted that he would be prepared to engage with the tribunal once his salary was restored.
In the meantime, Mr. Temo has indicated that the tribunal proceedings are expected to commence in December but refrained from making further comments due to the sensitivity of the matter.
Overall, Mr. Pryde’s commitment to defending his rights in this challenging situation underscores the importance of due process and fairness in legal proceedings. It serves as a reminder that ensuring equitable treatment is vital, not only for individuals but for the integrity of the justice system as a whole.
In summary, Christopher Pryde stands firm against his suspension and the conditions that he believes undermine his right to a fair hearing, highlighting ongoing tensions within the judicial framework in Fiji. It remains to be seen how this situation will unfold, but the emphasis on justice and due process is a hopeful sign for maintaining the rule of law.
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