Tunisia's justice ministry spokesman says the country's ousted leader and his wife will soon be tried in absentia.

Kadhem Zine El Abidine said Friday he expects the trial of former President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, and his wife, Leila Trabelsi, to begin before the end of the month.

The couple fled to Saudi Arabia after a popular uprising forced Mr. Ben Ali's downfall January 14 after 23 years of rule.

Mr. Ben Ali and his family are facing dozens of charges, stemming from the discovery at the presidential palace of drugs, weapons and $27 million in cash.

They are also accused of money laundering and murder.