FICAC today made an application to file additional charges against former Works Ministry CEO Anasa Vocea in the Suva Magistrates Court this afternoon.

FICAC Lawyer Aca Rayawa told Magistrate Elsie Hudson that they intend to join 8 charges of false declaration along with Vocea's 8 charges of fraudulent conversion.

Vocea's lawyer Haroon Lateef told the court that they were only informed of the new charges on Friday, while the case was set for hearing today.

He also stated that the charges of extortion laid against his client have also been amended.

Vocea is alleged to have received $4000 as Directors Fees for the company Pacific Forum Line, on behalf of the government and allegedly used the money for his personal use.

It is also alleged that Vocea failed to declare his earnings from the director’s fees in the Income Tax Returns.

Lateef said the two matters should be dealt with separately to ensure his client is not prejudiced by the joining of the charges which deal with separate issues.

Rayawa objected and maintained that the two cases are linked and should be dealt with in a single trial.

However, Magistrate Hudson, after listening to the submissions, informed the lawyers that she is disqualifying herself from presiding over the case stating that there could be a conflict of interest as she was a former lawyer for FIRCA.

The case has also been transferred to the Suva High Court and will be called again on December 22nd.