Pryde case delayed as extradition drags

The legal proceedings against former Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde are facing significant delays, with no discernible progress reported in his extradition and disclosure process. The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) informed the Suva Magistrates Court that discussions are ongoing with the Attorney-General’s office to move the case forward.

“

We are continuing to liaise with the Attorney-General to move the case forward.

Pryde is accused of two counts of abuse of office, along with alternative charges of causing loss and obtaining financial advantage. These charges stem from allegations that he approved and received payments to which he was not entitled during his tenure as DPP. The court also heard that further time is required to complete the service of disclosure to Pryde, which has further slowed down the proceedings.

“

The court does not have clear information on Pryde’s current position in the process.

Resident Magistrate Yogesh Prasad voiced concerns regarding potential procedural unfairness, noting the court's lack of clear information about Pryde's current standing in the process. He also raised the possibility of recusing himself from the case, citing his previous years working with Pryde at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. The case has been adjourned to July 22.

“

He said he previously worked with Pryde at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for several years.