CJ Temo stays silent as claims against reinstated DPP mount

The public fallout within the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has escalated, with Chief Justice Salesi Temo refusing to comment on the ongoing controversy.

Contacted yesterday, Justice Temo stated, "No, no, no comment ... the tribunal has ended ... bye, vinaka."

On January 11, senior ODPP management filed a complaint with the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) against Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde, just days after his reinstatement by President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu.

Mr Pryde's suspension was reviewed by a three-member tribunal, which unanimously concluded that allegations of misbehavior were unfounded.

It advised the President that Mr Pryde should not be removed.

Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva alleged the FICAC complaint involves abuse of office related to gratuity payments from 2013 to 2018 made without presidential approval. She also cited claims of excess gratuities in 2023, improper life insurance payments instead of superannuation, and family airfare expenses outside contractual terms.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka expressed concern on Wednesday over the upheaval within the ODPP but appeared to conflate the roles of the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC) and the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) in his remarks.

On Monday, January 20, Mr Pryde is expected to report to Justice Temo, Chair of the JSC, for the handover of official items, including laptops, mobile phones, and keys, as he resumes office at Gunu House.

The JSC is responsible for recommending candidates for the DPP role to the President for endorsement.

Social Media Backlash 

Deputy DPP John Rabuku has sparked further controversy with unfiltered social media posts targeting critics of the ODPP management.

The situation continues to draw national attention as the ODPP faces scrutiny over its internal divisions and alleged misconduct.

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