Christopher Pryde, the Director of Public Prosecutions who had been suspended, will retain his position following a ruling from a three-member Tribunal. The Tribunal found unanimously that the allegations of misconduct against Mr. Pryde were not substantiated and recommended that he should not be dismissed.
In correspondence dated today, President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu informed Mr. Pryde about the Tribunal’s findings and advised him that his suspension, which had originally been put into place on April 13, 2023, has now been lifted. The President emphasized that the agreement of service established between Mr. Pryde and the Fijian government on September 4, 2019, is now effective again, and he will be compensated for his unpaid salary and benefits.
Furthermore, Mr. Pryde is instructed to report to the Chairperson of the Judicial Services Commission to receive his official properties, including a laptop, mobile phones, and keys, and to return to his role as Director of Public Prosecutions.
The Tribunal was led by Justice Anare Tuilevuka, with Justice Chaitanya Lakshman and Justice Samuela Qica serving as members. They submitted their report to the President on December 23, 2024.
This resolution reinstates Mr. Pryde’s position and suggests a consensus that the integrity of the Director of Public Prosecutions is intact. The transparency of the Tribunal’s process and the President’s actions may restore confidence in the legal system in Fiji.
In summary, Christopher Pryde will continue in his role as the Director of Public Prosecutions after a Tribunal cleared him of the allegations against him, showcasing a commitment to justice and due process.
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