The Tribunal Report concerning the allegations of misconduct against Christopher Pryde, the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, will be made available to the public following a thorough review by His Excellency, President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu.
A Tribunal, consisting of three members, was formed under section 112 of the Constitution of the Republic of Fiji to investigate these allegations. Justice Anare Tuilevuka led the Tribunal, which included Justice Chaitanya Lakshman and Justice Samuela Qica. The Tribunal completed its assessment and submitted its findings to the President on December 23.
According to a statement from the President’s Office, His Excellency will need time to examine the report, conduct consultations, and seek advice before taking any action. The office noted that the holiday season has resulted in some delays as officials are currently on leave. However, it assured that the examination of the report would be prioritized once normal operations resume in the New Year.
The President’s Office confirmed its commitment to transparency, acknowledging the constitutional requirement to publicly release the report as stipulated in section 112(6). Meanwhile, Pryde has reached out to the President, urging the release of the report and emphasizing that if the findings indicate a lack of evidence for misconduct, he expects his immediate reinstatement as the DPP.
In summary, the situation highlights a meticulous approach to ensuring justice and due process within the country’s legal framework, demonstrating the commitment to uphold constitutional mandates even amidst holiday delays. There is hope that the final report will bring clarity and resolution to this matter in the upcoming new year.
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