Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) leader Imran Khan plans to run for the position of Chancellor at Oxford University. The seat became available following Lord Patten’s resignation after 21 years in the role. Other notable candidates include former UK Prime Ministers Sir Tony Blair and Boris Johnson.
Imran Khan, an alumnus of Keble College, Oxford, where he studied Economics and Politics, also captained the university’s cricket team. He previously served as Chancellor of Bradford University from 2005 to 2014.
Imran Khan’s advisor, Sayed Zulfi Bukhari, revealed Khan’s candidacy, highlighting public demand for his participation. Bukhari expressed confidence in Khan’s suitability for the position and anticipated a strong campaign.
The Chancellor’s role at Oxford is ceremonial, with elections to be conducted online for the first time, allowing participation from the university’s 350,000-strong convocation.
Imran Khan is currently imprisoned on charges related to incitement of violence during protests in May of the previous year. He denies these allegations and has stated that his incarceration is politically motivated.
At a recent event in the House of Lords, PTI leaders and UK parliamentarians called for Khan’s release, criticizing his detention as baseless. This event was attended by over 22 parliamentarians, indicating substantial support for Khan.
Imran Khan’s candidacy for Oxford University’s Chancellor position has generated significant interest and support. Despite his current legal challenges, his advisors and supporters remain optimistic about his chances in the upcoming election.
