Christopher Pryde, the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, has firmly stated that he will not resign or appear before the tribunal set to meet on December 2. He argues that his suspension from receiving salary has placed him in a position where he cannot afford legal representation, thereby undermining his ability to defend himself adequately.
In a recent communication dated November 21, Pryde expressed concerns regarding the fairness and justice of the tribunal process, stating, “How can a hearing be just and fair when I have been deprived of the means to adequately defend myself?” He further claimed that proceeding with the hearing under these circumstances is a violation of both the President’s mandate for fairness and relevant International Labour Organisation conventions that Fiji has ratified.
Pryde has criticized the actions of the Acting Chief Justice, Salesi Temo, and the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) for supporting his salary suspension, which he perceives as interference in the tribunal’s proceedings. He noted that Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has publicly backed his calls for salary reinstatement, which he believes is a reasonable stance.
Despite being pressured to resign, Pryde has expressed his determination not to be intimidated. He is prepared to resume legal representation and engage with the tribunal once his salary and entitlements, which he argues are still active under his contract, are restored. Pryde emphasized that until his financial situation improves, he will be unable to participate in the upcoming hearing.
Comments from Mr. Temo regarding the tribunal proceedings remain guarded, as he refrained from discussing specifics, citing the ongoing legal nature of the situation.
This situation highlights issues of fairness and justice in legal processes, as it raises questions about how individuals are treated within judicial frameworks. It remains to be seen how the tribunal will address these concerns, and the hope is that a resolution will facilitate a just and equitable outcome for all parties involved.
Summary: Christopher Pryde, suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, refuses to resign or attend an upcoming tribunal hearing due to his salary suspension impacting his legal defense. He claims this undermines fairness and justice, criticizing the actions of the judicial authorities involved. Pryde maintains he will only participate once his salary is restored, emphasizing his right to a fair hearing.
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