Former Fisheries and Forestry Minister Kalaveti Ravu will have to wait until next year to learn the outcome of his case. Ravu, along with former Regional Manager North Tekata Toaisi, appeared before Magistrate Jeremaia Savou in the Suva Magistrates Court. Toaisi pleaded not guilty today to charges of aiding and abetting.
Toaisi faces one count of aiding and abetting abuse of office. During the proceedings, FICAC Counsel Lavenia Ravuikadavu stated that there were no admissions made during the caution interview. Ravu’s attorney, Lavi Rokoika, indicated that they are prepared for trial. Similarly, Toaisi’s lawyer, Joji Cakau, expressed readiness for trial and requested an expedited trial date.
FICAC is expected to disclose three additional documents to the defense lawyers. Ravuikadavu informed the court that FICAC plans to present 16 or more witnesses during the trial, which is scheduled to commence in February of next year. Ravu is charged with one count of abuse of office, with allegations stating that between July 25 and August 31, 2023, he interfered in a legitimate investigation by the Ministry of Forestry into the illegal trade of banned species of beche-de-mer. It is alleged that Toaisi assisted Ravu in this offense while working for the Ministry.
The case has been adjourned to next month, with a pre-trial conference set for the 19th.