The Tribunal that investigated the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, Christopher Pryde, utilized a total of $88,597 in taxpayer funds during the process. According to the final report submitted to the President, $59,400 of this amount was allocated for sitting allowances. The Tribunal was led by Justice Anare Tuilevuka and included members Justice Chaitanya Lakshman and Justice Samuela Qica, with support from three lawyers whose individual payments were not specified in the report.
In addition to the sitting allowances, the report indicated that $14,253 was spent on accommodation for the Tribunal’s members. Investigators were allocated a combined total of $12,647 for their allowance and meal expenses, with Sanjay Singh and Inoke Cokanasiga designated as the appointed investigators. An additional $1,405 was used for refreshments during the proceedings.
The Tribunal conducted a series of 29 briefings from March to November 2024, culminating in hearings held from December 2 to 6, 2024, where 24 witnesses provided testimony. Ultimately, the Tribunal’s findings, released recently, exonerated Christopher Pryde of any wrongdoing, leading to the President’s decision to revoke his suspension.
This investigation, despite the significant cost to taxpayers, concluded with a positive outcome for Mr. Pryde, reinforcing the idea that due process and thorough investigations can lead to clarity and justice. This case highlights the importance of accountability in public office and the necessity of utilizing resources wisely to uphold the integrity of the legal system.
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