Kalaveti Ravu, the former Minister for Fisheries and Forests, was absent from court during a hearing related to his corruption case at the Magistrates Court in Suva today. His attorney, Jioji Cakau, explained that Ravu was engaged with parliamentary duties in Nadi, but State counsel Lavenia Ravuikadavu noted they had not been informed of his non-attendance in advance.
Present at the hearing was Tekata Toaisi, the former Regional Manager for Fisheries and Forests North, who is also facing charges in connection with the case. Allegations against Ravu indicate that between July 25 and August 31, 2023, he interfered with a legitimate investigation by the Ministry of Forestry into the illegal trade of prohibited beche-de-mer species. Toaisi is accused of helping Ravu in this alleged abuse of office.
The court has scheduled the case to be recalled on January 21.
This situation underscores the importance of legal accountability and the ongoing fight against corruption within governmental offices. Moving forward, public interest in how these allegations will unfold could pave the way for enhanced transparency and integrity in public service.
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