Pak PM Gilani claims himself not to be a wealthy man

Islamabad, May 9 (ANI): Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani claimed that he isn't a rich man but is modestly wealthy.

He revealed that had no stocks and shares, but just cash, one house, a plot of land and about two kilograms of gold ornaments.

According to a statement of assets published by the Election Commission of Pakistan, Gilani does not even own a car and his entire worth is about 140,000 pounds, which is modest by the standards in comparison to his predecessors.

However, Hasan Askari Rizvi, a political analyst, said that Pakistan's strong family structure meant assets were often held by other family members.

"You can't really assess the real wealth of a person. There are ways to cover it up," The Telegraph quoted Rizvi, as saying.

Last month Gilani was convicted of contempt of court after he refused to reopen corruption proceedings against President Asif Ali Zardari.

In Pakistan, according to law, Pakistan's politicians are expected to declare their assets and liabilities once a year.

Politicians along with Gilani, who embarked on a five-day trip to the UK, are considered as experts at hiding their wealth, many investing their money into agricultural land which is not taxed. (ANI)