Fiji’s suspended chief prosecutor, Christopher Pryde, has revealed that the government proposed a NZ$150,000 payment to encourage him to resign and evade an inquiry into allegations of his misconduct. At 59 years old, Pryde declined the offer, asserting that he cannot afford to defend himself at the inquiry. He expressed his belief that the government is attempting to remove him as part of a larger ethno-national agenda, claiming that indigenous Fijians are being prioritized over foreigners and Indo-Fijians.
Pryde indicated that he feels qualified individuals are not being hired based on merit but rather on their ethnic background, with the government favoring indigenous people in positions of authority. In response to multiple requests for comments, the Fijian government has not provided any statements regarding his accusations.
Two months ago, the Judicial Services Committee (JSC) outlined a proposal for an out-of-court settlement, which required Pryde to resign as Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and would act as a barrier to any further legal action against the JSC. Despite contemplating resignation, Pryde clarified that he has done nothing wrong and preferred an official letter absolving him of misconduct rather than a financial payout.
Pryde was appointed DPP in November 2011 but was suspended in April 2023 after being accused of misconduct following a conversation with former Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. The matter revolves around whether Pryde had knowledge of an active police investigation into Sayed-Khaiyum prior to their discussion, which Pryde denies. Leading to tensions, Fiji’s Prime Minister warned that individuals in power must be cautious about their actions as they are under scrutiny.
In April 2023, Pryde faced additional allegations concerning the receipt of superannuation payments that he allegedly received without JSC approval, which led to the government cutting off his pay and benefits.
The Fiji Law Society has expressed concerns about the inquiry’s process, noting that it should not proceed in Pryde’s absence. They underscored the importance of ensuring fairness, especially since Pryde was initially represented by legal counsel and had to withdraw due to financial restrictions.
The tribunal is expected to finalize its recommendations to President Naiqama Lalabalavu by December 23. Meanwhile, Pryde has hinted that he expects to be removed from his position and that the acting chief prosecutor, Nancy Tikoisuva, will take over.
This situation highlights the complexities of governance, accountability, and ethnicity in Fiji. It is crucial for the judiciary to prioritize fairness and transparency to protect the integrity of its institutions. The optimism lies in the potential for the legal system to uphold fundamental rights and ensure a balanced approach in resolving disputes.
Summary: Christopher Pryde, Fiji’s suspended chief prosecutor, disclosed that the government offered him NZ$150,000 to resign to avoid an inquiry into alleged misconduct, which he rejected. He claims that the government is following an ethno-national agenda, sidelining merit-based hiring practices in favor of indigenous Fijians. Despite the challenges, there is hope for a just resolution as the legal process unfolds, emphasizing fairness and transparency.
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