Former Fisheries Minister Kalaveti Ravu and Regional Manager North Tekata Toasi have been acquitted of corruption charges brought against them by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).
In a judgment delivered this morning, Magistrate Jeremaia Savou ruled them not guilty of the offenses of abuse of office and aiding and abetting, respectively. The magistrate noted that the prosecution failed to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt, leading to their acquittal.
FICAC had charged Ravu with engaging in an arbitrary act that was prejudicial to another’s rights during his time in public service. Ravu’s defense was led by Tangaroa Vakalalabure, while Toasi was represented by lawyer Joji Cakau.
This decision marks a significant moment for both defendants, who can now move forward without the burden of these charges. The lack of sufficient evidence serves as a reminder of the legal principle that one is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Further developments regarding this case are anticipated.
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