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Ravu, Toaisi trial begins today

High Stakes Trial: Former Fiji Minister Faces Corruption Charges

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The trial of former Minister for Fisheries and Forests, Kalaveti Ravu, alongside regional manager North, Tekata Toaisi, kicks off today. Ravu faces a charge of abuse of office, while Toaisi is charged with aiding and abetting. They both appeared before Magistrate Jeremaia Savou at the Suva Magistrate’s Court yesterday for preliminary proceedings.

The charges stem from allegations that Ravu interfered with a Ministry of Forestry investigation concerning the illegal trade of banned beche-de-mer species. Meanwhile, Toaisi is accused of facilitating this wrongdoing. Magistrate Savou instructed both parties to commence the trial today following the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption’s (FICAC) announcement that they plan to present nine witnesses for the prosecution.

Among the witnesses outlined by FICAC is the Permanent Secretary for Information, whose statement has been agreed upon for submission to the court. Additional witnesses include former officials from the Ministry of Fisheries and Forests, such as Atelaite Rokosuka, Neomai Ravitu, and Tarisi Toroca Shaw, as well as a senior digital forensic investigator and an investigator.

Ms. Ratu of FICAC noted logistical challenges, with one witness currently in the Cook Islands and two others in Labasa. Magistrate Savou assured the defense lawyer, Lavi Rokoika, that issues surrounding admissibility would be addressed as they arise during the trial.

This trial marks a significant moment in the accountability of public officials, highlighting the importance of maintaining integrity within governmental processes. The court’s proceedings today could set crucial precedents for future cases involving corruption in Fiji.

Summary: The trial of Kalaveti Ravu and Tekata Toaisi for corruption-related charges begins today after preliminary hearings, with several witnesses lined up to provide testimonies related to the case.


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