Former Fisheries and Forestry Minister Kalaveti Ravu has filed a request to modify his bail conditions in order to travel to China. Ravu appeared in Suva Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Jeremaia Savou. He faces a charge of abuse of office, with allegations of interfering in a Ministry investigation concerning the illegal trade of prohibited beche-de-mer species between July 25 and August 31 of the previous year.
Ravu’s attorney, Lavi Rokoika, informed the court that her client needs to attend a seminar in China from October 22 to 31. FICAC prosecutor Lavenia Ravuikadavu requested a formal application from the defense, but Magistrate Savou noted that the letter from Parliament, which contained the requisite affidavit and evidence, was adequate. The court granted FICAC 14 days to respond to the defense’s application and directed that a copy of Ravu’s passport biodata page be submitted by the end of business yesterday.
In a related matter, Tekata Toaisi, who is also charged with aiding and abetting the allegations against Ravu, missed the court session due to a scheduling mix-up while he was on Rabi Island. Consequently, the court suspended his bench warrant. The trial for both Ravu and Toaisi is scheduled for February 3 to 7 next year. Ravuikadavu mentioned that they are ready for trial, with 12 witnesses and 39 documents prepared. The case was adjourned until October 3, when the court will review the State’s response to Ravu’s bail modification request and the upcoming pretrial conference.