Arriving in London on the first day after the coup was staged in Thailand, Thaksin decided to buy a luxury home in the city.

At the time, many were amazed by his decision. Would buying a mansion in London mean he intended to live there permanently and not return to Thailand?

Indeed, many Thais have opted to do so when faced with severe problems at home. Pin Chakkaphak, president of the defunct Finance One, has been in London for 10 years now. Decades ago, statesman Pridi Banomyong also fled to London when he faced political charges at home.

Thaksin may not want to stay in London forever, because he keeps saying in his speeches, circulated through whichever media can still relay his

voice, that he will return to Thailand.

But then he announced his plans to acquire an English football club, Manchester City. The deal was approved after the Assets Examination Committee decided to freeze his assets. What drove him to strike the deal, worth billions of baht when he should be saving his hidden money for future expenses?

There are two scenarios.

First, he must have much more cash than previously thought. Even though he will need to reside in England for years, he has enough to finance a lavish lifestyle.

Second, he is willing to spend all he has for something of great value. If this investment can lead to that, it is worth spending. Could this precious thing be permission to become a permanent resident?

The second scenario seems more probable, given that Thaksin is finally facing criminal charges, and many more could follow.

And now he is being summoned to hear officially the accusation that he concealed SC Asset shares.

Without his presence in court, he could face extradition. He must be hoping that his stake in the English football club will help his precarious situation.

achara_d@nationgroup.com