Transparent policies needed for judiciary - Dialogue Fiji

The people of Fiji deserve institutions that are not swayed by political winds but are grounded in constitutionalism, transparency, and accountability.

This has been highlighted by the Dialogue Fiji Executive Director Nilesh Lal who says we must welcome the adherence to constitutionalism and the rule of law demonstrated in the conclusion of the Tribunal appointed to review allegations of misbehavior against the Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde.

Lal says the reinstatement of Christopher Pryde, despite his apparent lack of favour with the current political leadership, is a significant victory for constitutionalism and institutional independence in Fiji.

Lal says it demonstrates the critical importance of adhering to due process and respecting the recommendations of independent tribunals, even when the outcomes are politically inconvenient.

He says for far too long, Fiji has struggled with an over-powerful executive arm that often exerts undue influence over key state institutions.

Lal also highlighted that this culture, inherited from the previous government and instituted by the 2013 Constitution, has persisted and continues to threaten the independence of institutions tasked with upholding the rule of law.

The Executive Director says the Tribunal’s recommendations regarding the need for clear and transparent policies for handling complaints against judicial and quasi-judicial officers are also welcomed by Dialogue Fiji.

Lal says Fijians deserve a judiciary and prosecution body to operate without fear or favour, where justice is not just done but is seen to be done.

Dialogue Fiji urges the government and stakeholders to ensure that the Tribunal’s recommendations are implemented, particularly the establishment of robust policies to guide the evaluation of complaints against judicial and quasi-judicial officers.

Lal adds the outcome must not be seen as an isolated incident but as a turning point toward a stronger, more independent system of governance in Fiji.