Reinstated DPP Tikoisuva denies allegations of excess payments

Reinstated Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Christopher Pryde has denied allegations of financial misconduct as tensions escalate within the Office of the DPP (ODPP).

Mr Pryde, who resumes duties on Monday, said yesterday: “I intend to discuss these actions with the Acting DPP when I return.”

The allegations include gratuity payments exceeding entitlements, life insurance received instead of superannuation, and family travel airfares outside contractual terms.

A complaint was lodged with the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) by senior ODPP management last Friday.

Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva has notified Mr Pryde of the complaint.

“She advised me that senior management reviewed my file after its return from the Tribunal hearing, which exonerated me,” he said.

“I completely deny any wrongdoing.”

Mr Pryde has questioned the timing and motives behind the complaint.

“For 21 months, my file was with the Chief Registrar, who raised no issues,” he said.

“Payments under my contract have been audited twice annually without concerns. What has the Acting DPP found that others missed?”

He added: “The haste in reviewing my file and laying this complaint days before my return raises suspicion about her true motives.”

Tikoisuva defends complaint

Ms Tikoisuva welcomed the chance to discuss the matter with Mr Pryde on Monday.

“We cannot ignore these anomalies. It’s our duty to report serious allegations, especially those involving fraud,” she said.

She also said the discrepancies were identified while calculating arrears in Mr Pryde’s salary.

“As prosecutors, we owe it to the public to act with integrity. The evidence warranted a complaint to FICAC.”

Ms Tikoisuva emphasised that the ODPP’s senior management team has extensive experience in fraud cases.

“It doesn’t take a genius to identify anomalies in accounts. This is not about victimising Mr Pryde; the allegations are valid and serious.”

FICAC has already executed a search warrant as part of its investigation.

“We stand by our staff and wit,” Ms Tikoisuva said.

“This is about upholding the integrity of our institution.”

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