Suspended DPP’s Fate Hangs in Balance as Report Awaits President’s Review

The report from the Tribunal concerning the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Christopher Pryde will be made public, but only after President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu reviews the findings, consults with officials, and seeks necessary advice. This process is currently delayed due to some officials being on leave during the holiday season.

Mr. Pryde, who has held the DPP position since 2011, was suspended with full pay on April 13, 2023, following allegations of misbehavior related to his meeting with former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. A tribunal, chaired by Justice Anare Tuilevuka and comprising Justices Chaitanya Lakshman and Samuela Qica, was appointed to investigate these allegations.

In his recent correspondence to the President’s office, Mr. Pryde pushed for the prompt release of the report, citing the constitution’s stipulation that it must be made public. He argued that if the tribunal finds insufficient evidence of misbehavior, he should be reinstated and his salary restored. He expressed concern over the financial difficulties his suspension has caused, highlighting that it has been nearly 21 months since he was suspended, with close to six months without a salary.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has refrained from commenting on the matter as it is not within his authority. Meanwhile, feedback from the Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga and Attorney-General Graham Leung is still awaited.

The President’s office has reiterated the need for due diligence before making the report public, acknowledging that while the constitution mandates transparency, careful consideration must be taken as part of the process.

This situation underscores the importance of due process in judicial proceedings and the necessity of resolving such matters in a timely manner to mitigate ongoing uncertainties and hardships for those involved. There is hope that the report will be released soon, allowing for clarity and closure for all parties, especially Mr. Pryde, who seeks to restore his career and financial stability.