DPP suspension was dealt with a long time ago, the alleged actions by the DPP was not right – PM

Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka says the decision regarding the suspension of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Christopher Pryde was dealt with a long time ago and had nothing to do with the statement by the Office of the DPP that a police docket decision was pending for Rabuka and Minister for Rural and Maritime Development, Sakiasi Ditoka.

The Office of the DPP had released a statement yesterday that a police docket has been sent on 5th April 2023 for a suspected charge of urging political violence and urging communal antagonism for Rabuka and Ditoka.

Rabuka says he is not aware of that and he has not been told that they would be investigated.

In a response to fijivillage News last night, Attorney General, Siromi Turaga had come out and alleged that Pryde spent about 30 to 45 minutes conversing alone with former Attorney General, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum at the Japanese Ambassador's reception in full view of those present last month.

Turaga says the DPP did this when files concerning Voreqe Bainimarama, Sitiveni Qiliho and Sayed-Khaiyum were with the DPP.

He says this is an alleged act of misconduct or misbehaviour.

The Attorney General says he had summoned Pryde to explain, and at first instance, Pryde was defensive but he later allegedly admitted his mistake.

Turaga says Pryde will be subject of a fair hearing before a Tribunal as required under the Constitution when there is an alleged misconduct or misbehaviour.

Rabuka says the alleged actions by the DPP was not right.

The Prime Minister says those who front the Tribunal will present their evidence, and if there is no case, then there is no case.