Former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum has responded to allegations concerning a conversation he had with suspended Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde, asserting that their discussion was unrelated to the ongoing investigation he is facing from the Criminal Investigations Department.
During the tribunal hearings at the Court of Appeal in Suva, Sayed-Khaiyum elaborated that his dialogue with Pryde revolved around personal matters involving their children. The discussion took place at a diplomatic event on February 28, 2023, a time when investigations into Sayed-Khaiyum had already been initiated, and the case file was in the hands of the Office of the DPP.
Pryde has been suspended with full pay pending the tribunal’s decision, following accusations of “misbehavior” from then-President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere in April 2023. However, Pryde has indicated he will not participate in the tribunal unless his salary is reinstated.
While taking the stand, Sayed-Khaiyum stated he conversed with several dignitaries during the event, notably the U.S. and Japanese ambassadors and various members of Parliament. He remarked that the evidence presented by the Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga, was misleading, claiming it only focused on his interaction with Pryde and did not reflect the full context of the situation.
On a key issue regarding Pryde’s superannuation payments amounting to USD 1,000 per month without appropriate authorization, Sayed-Khaiyum maintained that the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) handles such matters, emphasizing that he had a minimal role in the related decisions.
Minister Siromi Turaga, while providing his testimony, described the lengthy conversation between Sayed-Khaiyum and Pryde as “unbecoming and unethical,” given the ongoing investigation. He recalled how the conversation suggested a significant power imbalance, with Sayed-Khaiyum dominating the exchange. Turaga’s concerns were compounded by the established relationship between the two men, given their historic collaboration in public service.
After reflecting on the implications of their conversation, Pryde later expressed remorse for what he called a lapse in judgment, leading to an apology letter he sent to Turaga. Turaga subsequently reported the incident to the Prime Minister and filed a formal complaint with the JSC.
The tribunal hearings have been adjourned, with proceedings expected to continue today.
This situation underscores the importance of ethical conduct in public service, especially in contexts where potential conflicts of interest may arise. It highlights the responsibilities public officials bear and the scrutiny their actions can attract amidst ongoing investigations. Moving forward, it is hopeful that these proceedings will lead to transparent resolutions and reinforce accountability in the legal system.
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