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Former Fisheries Minister Opts for Change In Defence Counsel

Posted by Media Team 29 July 2024

The defence Counsels in the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) case involving former Minister for Fisheries and Forests, Kalaveti Ravu has been ordered to sort out their counsels and file proper application on their legal representation.

This comes as his counsel Mr Kalisito Maisamoa informed the Suva Magistrates Court that both Mr Ravu and the Second Accused, Mr Tekata Toaisi, the former Regional Manager North, both want to withdraw him as defence counsel.

Mr Maisamoa adds that he is refusing to withdraw as counsel as he is yet to be served with a Notice of Change of Solicitors and also because there is an issue of outstanding fees from the two accused.

Mr Ravu’s choice of counsel, Ms Lavi Rokoika, who was present in Court, says that Mr Maisamoa was informed prior to Court as a courtesy and all he had to do is inform the Court that he is withdrawing.

Resident Magistrate Talei Kean informed both Counsels that as senior counsels, they should act professionally and not in a conduct that is unethical.

FICAC Manager Legal, Ms Laite Bokini-Ratu informed the Court that the Prosecution wishes to serve the Second Phase Disclosures, as that is what the matter is listed for today.

She adds that since there is confusion regarding the representation for the accused persons, the Prosecution will hold off service until confirmation is received on who the disclosures are to be served to.

RM Kean agreed with the Prosecution and ordered that the disclosures shall not be served to both accused for now.

She says that both accused are to sort out their counsels and file proper applications before the next date.

The Court was also informed that Mr Toaisi has also opted to change his counsel as well, indicating that Mr Cakau of Vosarogo Law is to be his new defence counsel.

It is alleged that between 25th July 2023 and 31 August 2023, Mr Ravu interfered in the lawful process of a Ministry of Forestry investigation into the illegal trade of banned species of beche-de-mer.

It is alleged that Mr Toaisi, while employed with the Ministry, aided and abetted the former Minister in committing the offence of abuse of office.

The matter is adjourned to 12 August 2024 for defence legal representation and to serve the Second Phase Disclosures.