The trial for former Fisheries and Forestry Minister Kalaveti Ravu is scheduled to commence in February next year. Ravu faces charges alongside former Regional Manager North Tekata Toaisi.
Ravu appeared in the Suva Magistrates Court this morning before Magistrate Jeremaia Savou, where he submitted a bail variation request to allow him to travel to China. However, Toaisi was absent from the hearing, reportedly due to a mix-up with the hearing date.
The charges against Ravu relate to alleged corrupt practices involving false declarations associated with the FijiFirst Party, specifically against the Fiji First Australia Association Incorporated, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and Tito Bainimarama.
Additional complaints involve Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and Mohammed Saneem regarding collusion and conflict of interest, along with Arif Ali, who is alleged to have made a $10,000 donation to the FijiFirst Party while serving as a civil servant.
Further complaints are directed at the President of the Republic of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and Charan Jeath Singh. There is also a complaint against Voreqe Bainimarama for submitting false declarations related to income, assets, and liabilities for the years 2014 to 2019 and 2022. Lastly, a complaint has been lodged against Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum for not declaring overseas travel allowances.
The Supervisor of Elections has referred several other matters, which are currently under investigation by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). FICAC has stated it will not provide comments until the investigations are complete and has assured the public that the commission remains operational and thorough in handling all complaints, regardless of the individuals involved.