Imran Khan’s Political Woes!

Ishtiaq Ahmed 

Bradford: Imran Khan’s recent failed bid to become the Chancellor of the University of Oxford marks another setback in his ongoing political struggles.

Despite a vigorous campaign led by his supporters, particularly from his political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Khan’s name did not appear on the list of 38 prospective candidates released by the university on October 16, 2024.

This is seen as a blow to both Khan’s personal aspirations and the efforts of his backers, who had hoped to elevate his global standing through this prestigious role.

While the university did not comment on individual applications, it emphasized that candidates must meet strict criteria, including not being disqualified as charity trustees and being considered “fit and proper” by UK tax authorities (HMRC).

These requirements likely played a role in Khan’s exclusion, as he has been in prison for over a year, facing more than 200 charges—charges that he and his supporters argue are politically motivated.

The Chancellor’s role at Oxford, although largely ceremonial, is highly coveted and carries significant prestige and responsibility. It includes presiding over key university ceremonies and chairing the committee that elects the Vice-Chancellor.

Khan, who previously served as Chancellor of the University of Bradford from 2005-2014 is no stranger to such positions, but his current political and legal challenges significantly weakened his candidacy.

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Khan’s failed bid has a clear political dimension, with some speculating that the move was largely symbolic, intended to keep his name in the global conversation amid his legal troubles.

The campaign by Khan’s PTI supporters was met with strong opposition from political rivals, particularly PML-N supporters, who questioned his suitability for such a prestigious position.

Ultimately, Khan’s exclusion from the candidate list highlights the immense challenges he faces both at home and abroad, as he continues to grapple with his legal battles and diminished political stature.

The election for Oxford’s next Chancellor, set to take place in late October 2024, will now proceed without him, with high-profile figures like William Hague and Peter Mandelson among some of the other prominent contenders for the role.

The author is a British citizen of Pakistani origin with a keen interest in Pakistani and international affairs.

The article is the writer’s opinion, it may or may not adhere to the organization’s editorial policy.