Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan and a renowned cricketer, is set to contest the position of Chancellor at his alma mater, Oxford University, from his prison cell in Pakistan. The news was reported by The Telegraph, which quoted Sayed Zulfi Bukhari, Khan’s advisor on international affairs, as stating that there is a public demand for Khan to contest the election.
This year marks a historic shift in the election process, with the university adopting an online ballot system for the first time. The chancellorship, a prestigious position traditionally held by eminent public figures, has been vacant since the resignation of Lord Patten after 21 years in the role. The university’s 350,000-strong convocation will participate in the online election to choose the new chancellor.
Khan’s candidacy comes amidst a tumultuous period in his political career. He has been incarcerated since August 2023, facing numerous legal cases. Khan was arrested and convicted in several cases, with the longest sentence being nine years. Despite his legal challenges, Khan’s supporters have shown strong support, demanding his release and participation in political life.
While Khan’s advisor initially expressed uncertainty about his candidacy, later confirming his participation in the election. Khan is expected to face competition from prominent figures such as former British Prime Ministers Sir Tony Blair and Boris Johnson. The outcome of the election remains uncertain, with the university’s convocation set to decide the future chancellor.
