Zarina Bi, Assistant Secretary of the Judicial Services Commission (JSC), testified in court regarding the absence of authorization records for the monthly superannuation payment of US$1,000 to Christopher Pryde, the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions. Bi noted that Pryde’s employment contract did not specify a superannuation amount, prompting the JSC to reach out to him for clarification on who had granted approval for these payments.
Bi stated that while Pryde’s base salary is $250,000, the Commission has questioned the legitimacy of these payments, which should be approved through the JSC and the Office of the Attorney-General, with the President’s consent, as mandated by the Constitution for such appointments.
Fiji Law Society representative Laurel Vaurasi inquired about the record-keeping from the time Bi was appointed as the JSC Assistant Secretary in 2013. Bi confirmed that the only record lacking was the authorization for Pryde’s monthly US$1,000 payment. Justice Tuilevuka pointed out that this payment was understood to have originated when Pryde assumed the role of Solicitor-General in 2007, questioning if that understanding was documented in his files. Bi assured the court that the JSC maintains thorough records in collaboration with the Office of the Chief Justice.
The tribunal is currently investigating allegations of misbehavior against Pryde and has recommended to the President that he be removed from his position as DPP. Notably, on February 28, 2023, Pryde was seen in a lengthy discussion with Sayed-Khaiyum while the latter was under investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department, and it has been highlighted that as of December 4, 2023, Pryde continued to receive the US$1,000 payments without the necessary approvals.
The trial remains ongoing as the court examines these serious allegations.
This case underscores the importance of proper governance and transparency in public service payments, highlighting the checks and balances essential to uphold accountability within government entities. As the investigation proceeds, it offers a chance for the judicial system to reaffirm its integrity and restore public confidence through meticulous scrutiny and adherence to constitutional mandates.
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