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Pakistani PM Yousuf Raza Gilani has been charged with contempt in an appearance before the country's Supreme Court, according to BBC.

Mr Gilani is accused of failing to re-open corruption cases against President Asif Ali Zardari.

The prime minister, who faces jail and being barred from office if convicted, pleaded not guilty.

Mr Gilani argues that the president, who denies the corruption charges, has immunity as head of state.

President Zardari is accused of using Swiss bank accounts to launder bribes.

The Supreme Court has said Mr Gilani defied a court order to write to the Swiss authorities and ask them to re-open the cases against Mr Zardari.

Mr Gilani is expected to argue that he received legal advice that it would have been unconstitutional to pursue the cases.

Mr Zardari says the charges against him are politically motivated.

Helicopters hovered overhead and hundreds of riot police were guarding the Supreme Court as Mr Gilani arrived.