Kalaveti Ravu, the former Minister for Fisheries and Forests, was absent from court this morning for a case in which he faces a charge of abuse of office. Ravu is charged alongside former Regional Manager North, Tekata Toaisi, who appeared in the Suva Magistrates Court before Magistrate Jeremaia Savou.
FICAC Counsel Lavenia Ravuikadavu expressed to the court that they had not been notified of Ravu’s absence. She stated that if Ravu fails to appear at the next hearing, FICAC intends to seek a bench warrant for his arrest. Meanwhile, Toaisi’s lawyer, Jioji Cakau, explained that Ravu was unable to attend due to his participation in a Parliament Committee Meeting in Nadi this morning. Cakau also indicated that Ravu’s legal team would be submitting pre-trial documents and disclosures to FICAC by Friday.
The allegations against Ravu specify that between July 25 and August 31, 2023, he is accused of obstructing a lawful investigation by the Ministry of Forestry regarding the illegal trade of banned species of beche-de-mer. Additionally, it is alleged that Toaisi assisted Ravu in this abuse of office.
The case has been postponed until the 21st of this month for further mention, with the trial date set for February.
This situation highlights ongoing efforts to maintain accountability within governmental roles and the legal system’s processes, which aim to address abuses of power. The importance of transparency and legal adherence in public service continues to be emphasized.
In summary, the former minister’s absence raises concerns, but it also reinforces the legal process aimed at upholding the rule of law.
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