City chief Shinawatra's accusers have no proof, claims lawyer

Ousted Thai prime minister Thaksin faces corruption charges in his homeland, while he has been accused by others of failing to prevent human rights abuses while he was in power.

Asked about Amnesty International's claim that Thaksin "showed disregard for human rights", lawyer Noppadon Pattama told Radio Five Live's Sportsweek programme: "The charges remain unproven. I would urge them to come forward with solid evidence substantiating their claims instead of destroying his image internationally.

"Human Rights organisations are talking about the war against drug dealers and drugs traffickers in Thailand. The problems of drugs in Thailand was very serious at that time."

The military-installed government in Thailand have ordered Thaksin's arrest should he re-enter the country.

Pattama believes Thaksin would not receive a fair trial were he to do so and that to return while the military remains in power would compromise his personal safety.

"At the present time, Thailand has a military-installed government and he thinks he should be entitled to a fair trial," Pattama said.

"Certain witnesses may not be able to come forward to testify so it will be better for him to return when the time is right.

"The proper time is after the next general election and after the return of full democracy to Thailand and when a civilian government is restored.

Pattama claimed Thaksin survived an attempted assassination by car bomb while he was prime minister.

Britain has an extradition treaty with Thailand and could force Thaksin to return to face corruption charges.

But Pattama said: "He will be able to fight the extradition request if he can prove the charge is politically-motivated."

Pattama also reassured City fans that were Thaksin to stand trial, the Thai government would be unable to touch his stake in the Premier League club.

"The Thai court do not have any power to seize British assets," he said.