Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stated that the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Christopher Pryde is entitled to his full salary until he is officially removed from office. This statement was in response to a letter from Pryde to New Zealand’s Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters, where Pryde claimed his salary and contractual benefits had been ceased.
Pryde was suspended on April 13, 2023, following a complaint of alleged misconduct. The news was highlighted in the front page of The Fiji Times on Saturday, July 13.
In other developments, Attorney General Graham Leung clarified that the position of Police Commissioner is currently occupied and can only be vacated by a Tribunal finding of misconduct. Until such a decision is reached, the post cannot be advertised. Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chiu remains in the role until further discussions by the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC).
On a different note, Fiji Airways has applied to the United States Department of Transportation for approval to launch a new nonstop route between Nadi and Dallas, Texas. Backed by the acquisition of a new 334-seat Airbus A350-900 aircraft, this move aims to expand the airline’s presence in the US market, adding to their existing routes to Los Angeles and San Francisco. This initiative promises to strengthen connectivity and offer new travel options.
Additionally, there have been concerns raised about the neglect of Levuka, a historical port town recognized by UNESCO. There are calls for renewed efforts to develop and promote Levuka to travelers, emphasizing the importance of preserving and showcasing this heritage site.
Readers can find more opinions and feature articles in The Fiji Times, along with seven pages of letters to the editor reflecting the nation’s pulse. The newspaper also offers comprehensive international news and sports coverage.