Minister for Justice and former Attorney-General Siromi Turaga provided testimony today in the special tribunal hearing concerning suspended Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Christopher Pryde in Suva. As the complainant in the case, Turaga described a conversation lasting over 40 minutes between Pryde and former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum as inappropriate and unethical.
The tribunal is closely examining allegations of misconduct and is tasked with advising His Excellency the President regarding Pryde’s potential removal from office. Evidence presented indicated that, on February 28, 2023, while the Criminal Investigation Department was probing Sayed-Khaiyum, Pryde engaged in a lengthy discussion with him, raising concerns about the appropriateness of their interactions.
Turaga noted that during the conversation, both Pryde and Sayed-Khaiyum distanced themselves from other attendees at the Japanese Embassy’s celebration of the Japanese Emperor’s birthday. Witnesses included other officials, which heightened the scrutiny of their behavior. Turaga stated that during the discussion, Sayed-Khaiyum appeared to guide the conversation, with Pryde reacting in agreement.
Turaga expressed that this situation warranted serious attention, especially given that an investigation was underway regarding an alleged abuse of power by Sayed-Khaiyum, an investigation that was within the DPP’s purview at that time. When queried by the court about his concerns, Turaga emphasized that the nature of their dialogue was unbecoming due to the context of the ongoing investigation.
The minister revealed that upon summoning Pryde regarding the matter, he found Pryde’s attitude dismissive, describing him as reckless in his approach to the situation. Pryde acknowledged his lapse in judgment and even submitted a letter of apology to Turaga, which was written on March 6, 2023.
Following this, Turaga formally lodged a complaint with the Judicial Services Commission on March 29, 2023, after consulting with the Solicitor-General and other members of the JSC. The deposition continues with further witness testimonies scheduled for tomorrow.
This ongoing tribunal serves as a critical examination of ethical standards within public office, emphasizing the importance of accountability and integrity in governance. It reflects a commitment to uphold justice and maintain public trust in the legal system. As the hearing progresses, there remains hope for a resolution that reinforces the values necessary for effective and principled public service.
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