Former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum has asserted that his conversation with the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, Christopher Pryde, was not connected to any ongoing investigations by the Criminal Investigations Department. During his court testimony, Sayed-Khaiyum clarified that their discussion revolved around personal matters involving their children, specifically Emma, Pryde’s daughter, and Ibrahim, his son.
Sayed-Khaiyum expressed concern over the interpretation of their meeting, noting that the portrayal of their conversation as isolated was misleading. He highlighted that he had engaged in discussions with several officials, including the ambassadors from the U.S. and Japan, as well as various members of Parliament and Justice Isikeli Mataitoga, indicating that the context was more expansive than presented.
The former Attorney-General responded to allegations regarding conversations about his case, firmly denying any such discussions took place. He emphasized the ethical standards both he and Pryde uphold.
Additionally, when questioned about the superannuation payments accrued by Pryde, Sayed-Khaiyum stated that this matter fell under the purview of the Judicial Services Commission, which manages the remuneration for the position in coordination with the Office of the Attorney-General and receives validation from the Office of the President. He noted the complexities of tracking individual payments to constitutional office holders, including that of Pryde, and reiterated the importance of adhering to constitutional protocols as outlined in Section 117(5).
Sayed-Khaiyum further brought to attention the behavior of the Minister for Justice, who he claimed has been seen with individuals under investigation by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). He mentioned his own letter of complaint to FICAC regarding DPP staff and an Investigating Officer for alleged misconduct, asserting that an investigation is already underway.
The tribunal is currently reviewing allegations of misbehavior and has recommended the removal of Pryde from his position. Notably, evidence suggests the two men were conversing for over 45 minutes on February 28, 2023, during a time when the Criminal Investigations Department was actively looking into Sayed-Khaiyum.
The case, which was presented before Justices Anare Tuilevuka, Samuela Qica, and Chaitanya Lakshman, has been adjourned until tomorrow at 10 a.m.
This ongoing legal situation reflects larger themes of accountability and transparency in governance. It serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical standards among public officials and the need for thorough investigations to uphold the integrity of the justice system.
Summary: Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum maintains that his discussions with suspended DPP Christopher Pryde were personal and not related to ongoing investigations against him. He insists on the ethical behavior of both parties and highlights procedural governance regarding remuneration matters. The tribunal is examining accusations of misconduct, with proceedings scheduled to continue.
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