Former Minister of Fisheries and Forests, Kalaveti Ravu, did not attend court this morning for a case where he faces a charge of abuse of office. Ravu is being charged alongside former Regional Manager North, Tekata Toaisi, who was present at the Suva Magistrates Court before Magistrate Jeremaia Savou.
FICAC Counsel Lavenia Ravuikadavu indicated that the court was not notified of Ravu’s absence. She warned that if he fails to appear at the next hearing, FICAC would request a bench warrant for his arrest. Toaisi’s lawyer, Jioji Cakau, explained that Ravu was attending a Parliament Committee Meeting in Nadi and confirmed that Ravu’s legal team would submit pre-trial documents and disclosures to FICAC by this Friday.
The allegations suggest that between July 25, 2023, and August 31, 2023, Ravu obstructed a Ministry of Forestry investigation related to the illegal trade of banned beche-de-mer species. Additionally, Toaisi is accused of assisting Ravu in this misconduct while working at the Ministry. The case has been scheduled for another mention on the 21st of this month, with the trial slated for February.
This situation highlights the importance of accountability within government officials and the legal processes in place to investigate and address allegations of misconduct. As the case progresses, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to uphold integrity within public service.
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