LONDON: Pakistani politics have entered the Oxford University chancellorship race after Imran Khan submitted his candidacy. The university did not expect the backlash, The Times reported on Monday.
The contest is so intense that officials sought a legal opinion on whether Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), meets the eligibility requirements. Khan’s candidacy has raised concerns in Pakistan, especially since he is in prison. Many of his supporters believe that a win could improve his chances of release.
For centuries, prominent British figures have held the Oxford chancellorship, usually for life. Lord Patten of Barnes’ retirement has ignited fierce competition for this prestigious role.
Oxford will, for the first time, hold an online election for the chancellorship. Alumni will rank candidates by preference. Leading contenders include Lord William Hague, Lady Elish Angiolini, Lord Peter Mandelson, Imran Khan, Dr. Margaret Casely-Hayford, and Dominic Grieve.
Imran Khan Studied
Khan, 73, studied philosophy, politics, and economics at Oxford and graduated in 1975. He told The Times that he wants to “give back” to the university that shaped his leadership. After his interview, a third party approached a London barrister to evaluate Khan’s eligibility for the role.
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Although the chancellorship is unpaid and mostly ceremonial, Pakistani politics have made it a heated issue. Concerns are growing in Pakistan, where many see Khan’s potential win as a boost to his legal situation.
Oxford will soon release the final list of approved candidates. More than 26,000 registered alumni, out of 250,000 eligible voters, will participate in the election. Vice-Chancellor Irene Tracey confirmed that the high number of candidates will lead to multiple voting rounds. The new chancellor will be announced by year-end.
Student opinions are divided. Some support Khan, while others protest his candidacy. Hundreds of students signed a letter endorsing Khan, citing his “lifelong commitment to public service” and achievements in cricket, philanthropy, and as chancellor of the University of Bradford.
Opponents, led by Khurram Butt, leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) UK Youth Wing, submitted petitions against Khan. They also handed out leaflets to rally support for their stance.
As Oxford’s election nears, Pakistani politics are playing a significant role. Tensions rise in both Oxford and Pakistan as the race for chancellorship intensifies.
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