Hovat was a Cardassian legate and a senior member of the Cardassian Union in the 2370s. In early 2375, Hovat was honored with a dinner with many senior members of the Cardassian government attending. It was at this dinner that Damar and Siana met. (DS9: "Shadows and Symbols") This character was only mentioned in dialogue. The Star Trek Encyclopedia (4th ed., vol. 1, p. 349) and the episode's subtitles both spell his name as "Hovas".