The trial for former Fisheries and Forestry Minister Kalaveti Ravu is scheduled to begin in February of next year. Ravu faces charges alongside former Regional Manager North Tekata Toaisi.
During a court appearance this morning at the Suva Magistrates Court, Ravu submitted a bail variation request to allow him to travel to China. Toaisi was not present at the hearing due to a scheduling error regarding the date.
The first case involves allegations of corrupt practices related to false declarations concerning the FijiFirst Party, specifically against the Fiji First Australia Association Incorporated, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and Tito Bainimarama. The second case includes accusations of collusion and conflict of interest against Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and Mohammed Saneem for a $10,000 donation made to the FijiFirst Party by civil servant Arif Ali.
Additionally, there are complaints associated with the President of the Republic of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, along with Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and Charan Jeath Singh. Another complaint involves Voreqe Bainimarama for allegedly submitting false declarations regarding his income, assets, and liabilities between 2014 and 2019 and again in 2022. The fifth case addresses Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum’s failure to declare overseas travel allowances.
Regarding other matters referred by the Supervisor of Elections, investigations are ongoing, and FICAC has stated that it will not comment until they conclude. The Commission emphasized that it continues to operate as usual, handling all complaints with appropriate scrutiny, regardless of the individuals involved.