Thaksin may be considering exile

BANGKOK, Aug. 9 (UPI) -- Rumors that former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra may go into exile rather than face legal proceedings are unconfirmed, an official says.

Finance Minister Surapong Suebwonglee said while some sources have confirmed reports Thaksin is considering exile with his wife, other sources close to the couple have denied such allegations, The Bangkok Post said Saturday.

Thaksin and his wife, Khunying Potjaman, have been accused of illicit actions during a major land deal, while Thaksin is also facing charges in two other cases.

Khunying is currently out on bail since being convicted of tax evasion on July 31 by the Thai Criminal Court and sentenced to three years in jail.

Despite rumors of a possible flee for asylum, former Member of Parliament Arisman Pongruangrong says the couple is expected to return to Thailand on Sunday following the Beijing Olympic Games opening ceremony.

''His return will go according to schedule. Mr Thaksin confirmed that he will come back to fight all the cases in Thailand. He has never thought of seeking asylum as has been rumored,'' Arisman told the Post.