Former Minister for Fisheries and Forests Kalaveti Ravu was absent from court on the day he faced charges of abuse of office. His co-defendant, the former Regional Manager North, Tekata Toaisi, did appear before Magistrate Jeremaia Savou in the Suva Magistrates Court.
During court proceedings, FICAC Counsel Lavenia Ravuikadavu noted that they had not received notification of Ravu’s absence. She indicated that if Ravu fails to attend the next hearing, FICAC would seek a bench warrant for his arrest.
According to Toaisi’s lawyer, Jioji Cakau, Ravu was not in court due to his attendance at a Parliamentary Committee Meeting in Nadi. Cakau also mentioned that Ravu’s legal team intends to submit pre-trial documents and disclosures by this Friday.
The charges allege that Ravu interfered in an investigation by the Ministry of Forestry related to the illegal trade of banned species of beche-de-mer between July 25 and August 31, 2023. It is further claimed that Toaisi assisted Ravu in committing the alleged abuse of office.
The case has been postponed until the 21st of this month, with the trial currently scheduled for February.
This situation underscores the importance of accountability in public service and the commitment of legal authorities to uphold the law impartially. The forthcoming trial may provide clarity on the allegations and reinforce the principles of justice.
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