Former Minister for Fisheries and Forests, Kalaveti Ravu, has entered a plea of not guilty to a charge of abuse of office. He is alleged to have interfered in a legitimate investigation by the ministry regarding a suspected illegal trade involving a prohibited species of beche-de-mer last year.
Ravu’s attorney, Lavi Rokoika, indicated that his client was prepared to formally enter his plea now that disclosures have been provided. FICAC prosecutor Lavenia Ravuikadavu informed the court that the caution interview did not contain any admissions.
In a related development, Tekata Toaisi, the regional manager for the Ministry of Fisheries and Forests in the North, who is accused of assisting Ravu between July and August of the previous year, has requested that his plea be recorded at a future date. Lawyer Sovaia Nagonevulavula, representing Toaisi, stated they have submitted a notice to change solicitors and are awaiting the necessary disclosures.
Both men appeared before Suva Magistrate Jeremaia Savou and are scheduled to return to court on August 26.