Ex-Minister, senior official face verdict in abuse-of-office case

The abuse-of-office case against former Fisheries Minister Kalaveti Ravu and the ministry’s Northern regional manager, Tekata Toaisi, has entered its final phase, with a verdict set for January 21, 2026.

After months of hearings, cross-examinations, and arguments, their lawyers delivered closing submissions before Magistrate Jeremaia Savou in the Suva Magistrate Court today.

Mr Ravu is accused by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) of interfering with a lawful ministerial investigation into the alleged illegal trade of a banned species of beche-de-mer.

According to the prosecution, the interference occurred between July and August 2023, a period when the ministry had heightened surveillance on illegal harvesting and trading activities.

FICAC also alleges that Toaisi aided and abetted the former minister by facilitating or supporting the alleged interference during the same period.

Senior State lawyer Sadaf Shameem argued that the actions of both men undermined the integrity of the investigation and compromised the ministry’s efforts to protect Fiji’s marine resources.

However, defence counsels Tevita Vakalalabure and Joji Cakau strongly rejected the allegations.

Mr Vakalalabure said the prosecution failed to prove any deliberate interference by Mr Ravu, arguing that the former minister acted within his lawful powers.

Mr Cakau, appearing for Mr Toaisi, said the prosecution’s case relied heavily on assumptions rather than evidence.

Both lawyers urged the court to dismiss the charges, saying their clients’ reputations had been unfairly damaged.

Magistrate Savou thanked both sides for their submissions and confirmed that judgment would be delivered next month.

Both accused remain on bail while awaiting the verdict.