Imran Khan Being Sworn In As Pakistan Prime Minister

Former cricketer Imran Khan is being sworn-in as the new prime minister of Pakistan, over twenty years after he entered politics.

He was elected prime minister in a vote at the country’s National Assembly on Friday.

His PTI party won the most seats in July’s elections and Mr Khan has become PM with the help of small parties.

Correspondents say his priority will be to address a financial crisis, with the economy in need of a huge bailout.

In Friday’s vote, Mr Khan was backed by 176 members. His opponent, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) president Shahbaz Sharif, received 96 votes.

In a speech to parliament, 65-year-old Mr Khan reiterated his campaign promise to hold “corrupt” politicians to account, and to improve opportunities for young people.

“First of all, we will start strict accountability. I promise to my God that everyone who looted this country will be made accountable,” he said.
“I did not climb on any dictator’s shoulders; I reached this place after struggling for 22 years.”