Former Pakistani Prime Minister and cricket icon Imran Khan will campaign for the position of Chancellor at Oxford University from his prison cell in Pakistan, The Telegraph reported on Wednesday. This unusual scenario arises as Khan, who is currently serving a 10-year sentence, prepares to enter the online ballot for the prestigious role.
The position of Chancellor at Oxford University has been vacant since the resignation of Lord Patten, the former governor of Hong Kong and Tory Party chairman. Lord Patten, who served in this esteemed role for 21 years, stepped down recently, prompting the need for a new appointment.
In a significant departure from tradition, the elections for the new Chancellor will be held online. Traditionally, Oxford graduates would vote in person while dressed in full academic regalia. The shift to an online ballot marks a modern approach to an otherwise traditional process. The role of Chancellor, a prestigious position often held by notable politicians and distinguished individuals, is now open to candidates from diverse backgrounds.
Imran Khan, currently imprisoned over allegations related to inciting protests and violence against the military, has expressed his intention to run for the role of Chancellor. Khan, who has consistently denied the charges against him, remains a prominent figure in Pakistani politics and cricket.
Khan’s connection to Oxford University dates back to his student days. He made his Test cricket debut for Pakistan in 1971 and studied Economics and Politics at Keble College, Oxford, starting in 1972. During his time at Oxford, Khan also captained the university’s cricket team, showcasing his leadership both on and off the field.
Before his imprisonment, Khan served as Chancellor of Bradford University from 2005 to 2014. His tenure at Bradford was marked by his commitment to educational development and community engagement. This previous experience may bolster his candidacy for Oxford’s top position, despite the unusual circumstances surrounding his campaign.
Khan’s advisor on international media, Syed Zulfi Bukhari, informed The Telegraph that an official announcement regarding Khan’s candidacy would be made once they receive the go-ahead from Khan himself. Following this, a signature campaign will be launched to support his bid.
Despite the ambitious campaign from his prison cell, Khan faces significant competition. Former British Prime Ministers Sir Tony Blair and Boris Johnson are also in the running for the role of Oxford Chancellor. Both Blair and Johnson bring considerable political experience and public profiles to the race, which may pose a challenge to Khan’s chances of securing the position.
Khan’s candidacy highlights several intriguing aspects of the election process. Firstly, the online voting system introduces a contemporary twist to a traditionally formal process, potentially broadening participation and accessibility. Secondly, the presence of high-profile candidates like Blair and Johnson adds a layer of complexity to the election, making it a closely watched event.
The implications of Khan’s potential election to the role of Chancellor are multifaceted. As a prominent figure with a global profile, his election could bring significant international attention to Oxford University. Furthermore, his campaign from prison underscores the often-blurred lines between personal circumstances and professional aspirations.
