Thu Nov 14 11:14:04 UTC 2024: ## Former Pakistani PM Imran Khan Faces New Setback in Graft Case
**ISLAMABAD, November 14, 2024** – A Pakistani court today rejected a plea for acquittal from former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned for over a year on corruption charges. The decision marks another blow to Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, who are accused of illegally retaining and selling state gifts received during his time in office.
The couple is accused of purchasing state gifts, including watches and jewelry, at discounted prices. Under Pakistani law, government officials can retain gifts from foreign dignitaries, but they must declare their value and any profits made from their sale. Khan and Bibi have denied any wrongdoing.
The court will formally indict the couple on November 18th. This is the latest in a series of legal cases against Khan since his removal from power in 2022. He has been convicted on various charges, including corruption, unlawful marriage, and revealing national secrets, with sentences ranging from 3 to 14 years. While some of these convictions have been overturned or suspended, Khan remains imprisoned due to other pending cases.
Despite the legal setbacks, Khan remains a popular figure in Pakistani politics.
First Piper 