Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has clarified that the responsibility for deciding on the establishment of a tribunal to investigate claims against the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Christopher Pryde, does not lie with him. He emphasized that such decisions fall solely under the purview of the Judicial Legal Service Commission, distancing the Cabinet and the Prime Minister’s Office from this matter.
This statement comes after Pryde indicated the possibility of a new tribunal convening to address allegations against him. Rabuka made it clear, “If there’s another tribunal, it will not be my responsibility; it’s outside my area of responsibility.” His remarks echoed previous sentiments concerning the necessity of due process in governance.
When questioned about the financial aspects of maintaining such tribunals, Rabuka acknowledged that they are part of government operations, affirming that if a tribunal is deemed necessary, it will proceed accordingly. He further highlighted the importance of protecting classified information, asserting that any unauthorized release could lead to investigations.
This situation arises in the context of Pryde’s exoneration from misconduct allegations by an earlier tribunal, which reinstated him and restored lost benefits. Prime Minister Rabuka’s commitment to transparency and accountability reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen Fiji’s judicial integrity and governance structure.
The emphasis on due process and the clarification of roles within legal proceedings foster a hopeful outlook for Fiji’s legal system. Such developments aim to bolster public confidence in judicial institutions, signaling a dedication to upholding fairness and integrity in governance.
As Fiji navigates these complexities, the commitment to maintaining clear responsibilities promises to enhance the robustness of its legal framework, reinforcing a positive trajectory for the nation’s institutions of justice.
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