Former Minister for Fisheries and Forests, Kalaveti Ravu, failed to appear in court today during his corruption-related case at the Magistrates Court in Suva. Ravu’s lawyer, Jioji Cakau, informed the court that he was attending Parliamentary duties in Nadi. However, State counsel Lavenia Ravuikadavu contested this absence, stating they were not notified about it in advance.
Present in court was Tekata Toaisi, the former Fisheries and Forests Regional Manager North, who faces charges alongside Ravu. The allegations against Ravu assert that, while serving as Minister of Fisheries, he improperly intervened in a Ministry of Forestry investigation concerning the illegal trade of banned species of beche-de-mer between July 25, 2023, and August 31, 2023. Toaisi is accused of assisting Ravu in this alleged abuse of office.
The court has scheduled the case to be recalled on January 21.
This situation underscores the ongoing attention to accountability within government roles and the legal proceedings intended to uphold justice. While the case continues to unfold, it provides an opportunity for public discourse on the importance of transparency and integrity in governance. Despite the challenges, there is hope that the judicial process will act efficiently, reinforcing a society where rules are upheld and public trust is fostered.
Leave a comment