Manchester City's prospective new owner, Thaksin Shinawatra, has responded to recent attention from the Thai government and its agencies. The former prime minister is furious at what he sees as an ongoing attempt to discredit him and his family.
Thaksin's lawyers said yesterday that charges had been laid against members of the Assets Examination Committee (AEC) by Thaksin and his wife, Khunying Pojaman Shinawatra. The committee was set up by the military junta which seized power last September, to look into allegations of corruption by Thaksin and his government. He has claimed his innocence but the accusations have overshadowed his bid to take control at City.
Thaksin could secure the necessary 75 per cent of the shareholding at City this week which would allow him to de-list the company. It would also enable him to appoint a new manager with Sven Goran Eriksson expected to agree a three-year deal.
Thaksin has become increasingly irritated by allegations of wrong-doing in Thailand and seeing his assets frozen. In a statement, his lawyers said: "The sole purpose of the AEC is to sabotage any action by Dr Thaksin Shinawatra. Various actions taken by the AEC were illegal, unfair and against the principle of the rule of law.
"Therefore, Dr Thaksin Shinawatra and his family have no alternative but to take all necessary legal actions to protect himself and his family's reputation and prestige."