During the tribunal hearing for suspended Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde, Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh testified that he was also unaware of the details of the conversation between Pryde and former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. Singh mentioned that he provided a photograph to Justice Minister Siromi Turaga, which showed a third individual interacting with both Pryde and Sayed-Khaiyum at an official Japanese function.
When questioned by Justice Anare Tuilevuka regarding the identity of this third person, Singh could not provide any details, noting that the photograph was taken by staff from the Japanese embassy. He observed that the conversation between Pryde and Sayed-Khaiyum lasted slightly over 30 minutes, during which he noticed their serious demeanor, indicating that their discussion was substantial and not lighthearted.
Additionally, Singh relayed advice from Suva lawyer Hemendra Nagan, who cautioned that it was inappropriate for a Director of Public Prosecutions to be conversing with Sayed-Khaiyum, given that he was under investigation at the time.
Looking ahead, Acting Chief Justice Justice Salesi Temo is set to testify soon as the trial continues.
Summary: The tribunal for suspended DPP Christopher Pryde is examining the nature of his conversation with Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, with Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh providing insight into their interaction at a public event. The investigation emphasizes the complex dynamics between legal and political figures and the propriety of their interactions.
This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and the need for clear boundaries in professional relationships, especially for those in positions of authority. As the proceedings unfold, there is hope that they will lead to greater accountability and clearer standards within the government and legal systems.
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