Former Fisheries and Forestry Minister Kalaveti Ravu has requested a modification of his bail conditions in order to travel to China. Ravu appeared before Magistrate Jeremaia Savou at the Suva Magistrate’s Court, where he faces a charge of abuse of office. The accusation stems from his alleged interference in an investigation by the Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry regarding the illegal trade of banned 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 is required to attend a seminar in China from October 22 to 31. FICAC prosecutor Lavenia Ravuikadavu requested a formal application from the defense attorney. However, Magistrate Savou indicated that the formal letter from Parliament, which included the necessary affidavit and evidence, was adequate for the case. FICAC has been given 14 days to respond to the defense’s application, and Magistrate Savou instructed that a copy of Ravu’s passport biodata page be submitted to them by the end of the day.
In a related case, accused Tekata Toaisi, who is charged with aiding Ravu in the alleged abuse of office, missed the court session due to a misunderstanding of the date. He was also away on Rabi Island at the time, leading the court to suspend the bench warrant issued against him. The trial is scheduled for February 3 to 7 next year, with the prosecution ready to proceed, having gathered 12 witnesses and 39 documents for their presentation. The case has been adjourned until October 3 for updates on the State’s response regarding Ravu’s bail variation and for a pretrial conference.