Former Fisheries and Forests Minister Kalaveti Ravu was absent from court proceedings this morning, where he faces a single charge of abuse of office. Ravu is charged alongside former Regional Manager North, Tekata Toaisi, who did attend the hearing presided over by Magistrate Jeremaia Savou at the Suva Magistrates Court.
FICAC Counsel Lavenia Ravuikadavu informed the court that they had not received notification regarding Ravu’s absence. She warned that if Ravu fails to appear at the next hearing, FICAC would pursue a bench warrant for his arrest.
Toaisi’s attorney, Jioji Cakau, stated that Ravu was not in attendance as he was participating in a parliamentary committee meeting in Nadi. Cakau also mentioned that Ravu’s legal team would submit pre-trial documents and disclosures to FICAC by this Friday.
The allegations against Ravu indicate that he improperly influenced a Ministry of Forestry investigation concerning the illegal trade of banned beche-de-mer species from July 25 to August 31, 2023. Furthermore, Toaisi is accused of assisting Ravu in this misuse of power while working within the Ministry.
The case has been postponed until the 21st of this month for further mention, with the trial date scheduled for February.
This situation highlights the importance of accountability among public officials. While legal matters involving former ministers can be concerning, they also serve as reminders of the legal frameworks in place designed to uphold ethical governance. The court’s attention to these charges may help to reinforce public trust in the system as it works toward ensuring responsible conduct in leadership positions.
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