Pryde's Superannuation Payments Branded 'Theft'

The Acting Chief Justice and Chairperson of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), Salesi Temo, has described the suspended Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Christopher Pryde's US$1000 monthly superannuation payment as a "theft."

Justice Temo was the final witness during the third day of Pryde's tribunal hearing at the Veiuto Court Complex yesterday.

The tribunal is addressing two allegations against Pryde:

•  A photograph of Pryde with former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum at a diplomatic event on February 28, 2023.
•  Unauthorised superannuation payments of US$1000 (FJ$2277.45) per month, reportedly totalling more than FJ$288,000 since 2012.

Justice Temo disputed media reports characterising the payments as over-compensation, calling them outright theft.

He explained that JSC investigations revealed no record of authorisation for the payments.

"All such payments require consultation with the A-G's office and the President's approval. None of this occurred here," Justice Terna said.

The payments ceased in July 2023, when investigations commenced. Justice Temo emphasised that Pryde's contractual defence was insufficient to justify the transactions.

Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde.

Regarding the photograph with Mr Sayed-Khaiyum, Justice Temo said it was unwise for Pryde to be seen with someone embroiled in political controversy.

"Even without evidence of their conversation, a photograph can tell a thousand stories," he remarked.

Justice Temo stressed the ethical duty of neutrality for judicial and office holders, whether on duty or in private settings.

In response to Pryde's complaint about financial difficulties due to his salary suspension, Justice Terna dismissed it as baseless, noting that the Constitution provides for legal aid or self-representation.

The tribunal continues today.