Former Fisheries and Forestry Minister Kalaveti Ravu will have to wait until next year to learn the outcome of his case. Ravu is facing charges alongside former Regional Manager North, Tekata Toaisi, who today pleaded not guilty to accusations of aiding and abetting.
Ravu and Toaisi appeared in the Suva Magistrates Court this morning before Magistrate Jeremaia Savou. Toaisi entered a not guilty plea to one count of aiding and abetting abuse of office.
FICAC Counsel Lavenia Ravuikadavu informed the court there was no admission during the caution interview. Ravu’s lawyer, Lavi Rokoika, stated in court that they are prepared for trial, while Toaisi’s lawyer, Joji Cakau, also indicated readiness and requested an early trial date.
FICAC is still required to disclose three additional documents to the defense lawyers. Ravuikadavu indicated that FICAC plans to call more than 16 witnesses in this case. The court announced that the trial is set to commence in February of next year.
Ravu is charged with one count of abuse of office, with allegations stating that between July 25 and August 31, 2023, he interfered in the lawful investigation conducted by the Ministry of Forestry regarding the illegal trade of prohibited species of beche-de-mer. It is also claimed that Toaisi aided and abetted Ravu in committing the abuse of office offense while employed by the Ministry.
The proceeding has been postponed until next month for a pre-trial conference.