The Assistant Secretary of the Judicial Services Commission (JSC), Zarina Bi, has informed the Court that there are no records of authorization pertaining to a monthly superannuation payment of USD 1,000 to Christopher Pryde, the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). During the proceedings, Bi stated that Pryde’s employment contract did not specify an amount for this superannuation benefit.
Bi mentioned that the JSC had reached out to Pryde to request information on who granted the necessary approval for the payment. This inquiry was initiated by the Acting Chief Justice, Salesi Temo, who also serves as the JSC Chairperson.
According to Bi, Pryde’s base salary stands at $250,000. The JSC has raised questions regarding the approval process for the payments, clarifying that such payments should originate from the JSC based on recommendations from the Office of the Attorney-General, as required by the Constitution regarding any appointments made by the JSC.
The Fiji Law Society’s Laurel Vaurasi posed a question regarding the records available at the time Bi was appointed to the JSC in 2013, to which Bi confirmed that the only missing record was the authorization for the monthly USD 1,000 payment to Pryde.
Justice Tuilevuka expressed understanding that the USD 1,000 monthly payment to Pryde dates back to his tenure as Solicitor-General, which began in 2007. Bi reiterated that any relevant documents would be included in Pryde’s official file and assured the Court that the JSC maintains thorough records, including those held by the Office of the Chief Justice.
The tribunal is currently reviewing allegations of misbehavior against Pryde and advised that removal proceedings be recommended to His Excellency the President. Reports also indicate that on February 28, 2023, Pryde was observed conferring with Sayed-Khaiyum during an active criminal investigation involving Sayed-Khaiyum, the details of which were already in the hands of the Office of the DPP. Furthermore, it was noted that as of December 4, 2023, Pryde continued to receive the monthly USD 1,000 payment without the proper approval from the JSC or other authoritative bodies.
The trial is ongoing.
This situation raises important questions about governance and accountability within the judicial system. As the tribunal continues its investigation, it remains essential to ensure that all processes align with constitutional requirements, fostering a transparent legal environment. There is hope that these proceedings may lead to greater oversight and reform in the operation of judicial appointments and payments, ultimately strengthening the integrity of the judicial system.
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