Kalaveti Ravu, the former Minister for Fisheries and Forests, was absent from court as his corruption case was heard at the Magistrates Court in Suva today. His legal representative, Jioji Cakau, indicated that Ravu was attending Parliamentary duties in Nadi. However, state counsel Lavenia Ravuikadavu contended that the court had not been notified of Ravu’s absence.
Co-defendant Tekata Toaisi, the former Fisheries and Forests Regional Manager North, was present in court. The charges allege that between July 25, 2023, and August 31, 2023, Ravu interfered with a Ministry of Forestry investigation concerning the illegal trade of banned beche-de-mer species while serving as Minister. It is further claimed that Toaisi assisted Ravu in this misconduct, which amounts to abuse of office.
The court has scheduled the next hearing for January 21.
This case underscores the ongoing efforts to address corruption within governmental ranks and protect environmental regulations. As it unfolds, there is hope that such proceedings will promote accountability and restore public trust in governmental institutions.
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