The public will soon have access to the findings of the Tribunal concerning the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Christopher Pryde. However, this disclosure will occur only after President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu has reviewed the report, engaged in consultations, and obtained necessary advice on the matter. The President’s Office confirmed that the process is experiencing delays due to some officials on leave for the Christmas and New Year holidays.
The tribunal’s report was submitted to the President on December 23, 2024. Previously, Mr. Pryde had formally requested for the report to be made public, emphasizing that the Constitution mandates this disclosure under Section 112 (6). Mr. Pryde has held the DPP position since 2011 but was suspended with full pay on April 13, 2023, following allegations of misbehavior connected to his meetings with former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.
A three-member tribunal, chaired by Justice Anare Tuilevuka, was established under Section 112 of the Constitution to investigate the accusations against Mr. Pryde. In his letter to the President’s office, Mr. Pryde cited relevant constitutional provisions that state if the tribunal finds insufficient evidence of wrongdoing, his suspension should be lifted and he should be reinstated.
Mr. Pryde has expressed urgency for the matter to be resolved, noting the financial difficulties he has faced since the suspension, which has now lasted almost 21 months. The Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka, declined to comment on the situation, calling it outside his purview.
In an official statement, the President’s Office reiterated that President Ratu Naiqama will review the report thoroughly and will release it to the public as soon as he has completed the necessary consultations and considerations after officials return from leave.
This situation highlights the ongoing process of accountability within government positions and the importance of adhering to constitutional mandates, ensuring that justice is not only pursued but also perceived as fair and transparent. The hope is that a resolution will be reached soon, offering clarity to Mr. Pryde’s future and the functioning of the DPP’s office.
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