ISLAMABAD — A Pakistani court has denied a request for acquittal from former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has been incarcerated for over a year in connection with a corruption case, according to comments made by his legal representative.

This ruling represents another setback for Khan and his spouse, Bushra Bibi, who are facing allegations of improperly retaining and selling state gifts in contradiction to governmental regulations during his tenure as Prime Minister.

The couple is set to be officially charged in the matter during the next court session on November 18. Throughout this ordeal, both Khan and Bibi have maintained their innocence, asserting they have committed no illicit acts.

Lawyer Naeem Panjutha, representing Khan—who continues to enjoy significant popularity among opposition supporters—confirmed the court’s decision to reject their request for acquittal but did not release additional information on the case.

In accordance with Pakistani law, officials and politicians are permitted to keep gifts received from international dignitaries, provided they accurately report the gifts’ market value and declare any income earned from the sale of these items. The couple is accused of acquiring state gifts such as watches and jewelry at significantly reduced prices during Khan’s administration.

Since being removed from office through a parliamentary vote of no confidence in 2022, Khan has been embroiled in numerous legal battles. He has faced convictions relating to corruption, unauthorized marriage, and leaking sensitive national information, resulting in concurrent sentences ranging from three to 14 years as mandated by Pakistani legislation.

While these convictions have been suspended or overturned in various appeals, Khan has remained behind bars due to the existence of pending cases against him.