Fiji’s Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Christopher Pryde, has blamed the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) for his continued absence from office, stating that its failure to resolve fresh complaints against him has delayed his return to the job despite being cleared and reinstated by a presidential order more than three months ago.
In a strongly worded statement released Friday, Pryde rebuffed a front-page Fiji Sun article titled “Paid to Do Nothing,” which questioned his continued stay in New Zealand at taxpayers’ expense.
The article noted that Pryde, who earns FJD$250,000 annually plus additional benefits, has not resumed duties since his reinstatement on January 7—more than 100 days ago.
“The delay in my return is due solely to the continued failure by the Judicial Services Commission to make a determination on further complaints against me by Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva,” Pryde said, insisting he has been ready to resume duties but cannot do so under the threat of another suspension.
Pryde was suspended in April 2023 following earlier allegations but was cleared by a tribunal and reinstated in January 2025. However, before he could return, fresh allegations were lodged by Tikoisuva, who had been serving as Acting DPP in his absence.
The JSC has acknowledged receipt of Pryde’s letter refuting the new allegations and stated it would respond in due course. But in his latest statement, Pryde said that repeated follow-ups have been met with silence.
“None of them have responded,” Pryde said.
The DPP said he fears that if he returns to Fiji without a formal assurance from the JSC, he may face another abrupt suspension and a repeat of the ordeal in which he went seven months without pay.
“I have made it clear all along to the JSC that I am ready to return to work, but I have insisted that the JSC give me a clear undertaking that I will not be immediately suspended and my salary cut upon my return to Fiji.
“I, therefore, need to know from the JSC that this will not happen again,” Pryde said. “I request that the JSC kindly acknowledge my correspondence and make a decision. Their delay in attending to this matter is deeply concerning and contrary to the public interest.”
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