Imran Khan Eyes Oxford Chancellor Post from Jail: A Bold Career Move Amidst Legal Turmoil

News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/20th August 2024

Imran Khan, the jailed leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and former Prime Minister of Pakistan, has made a surprising move by applying for the position of Chancellor at Oxford University. Despite being imprisoned and embroiled in legal battles, Khan, an Oxford alumnus, is aiming for the prestigious role, showcasing his unwavering determination to remain influential on the global stage.

PTI announced Khan’s candidacy on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), revealing that the former cricketer and philanthropist has “formally submitted” his application for the chancellorship. This step was facilitated by his London-based spokesperson, Sayed Zulfikar Bukhari. The announcement highlighted Khan’s impressive resume, emphasizing his status as a national hero, former Prime Minister, and chairman of Pakistan’s largest political party, as well as his legacy as a cricket legend and philanthropist. PTI’s message underscored Khan’s resolve, stating that despite being “unlawfully incarcerated” for over a year, he remains steadfast in his principles and continues to pursue causes close to his heart.

This unexpected announcement followed the February resignation of Chris Patten, the last British governor of Hong Kong, from the position of Oxford University Chancellor. As per the university’s protocol, the list of candidates for the 10-year term will remain confidential until October, with voting scheduled for the end of that month. The position of Chancellor is highly coveted and carries significant influence within the academic and broader global community.

Imran Khan’s connection to Oxford dates back to 1975 when he graduated with a degree in philosophy, politics, and economics. During his time as a student, and later as a celebrated cricket player, Khan often made headlines in British gossip magazines, a testament to his high-profile lifestyle. His life has been marked by notable marriages, including one to British socialite and filmmaker Jemima Goldsmith. Khan’s ties to the UK extend to his previous role as Chancellor of the University of Bradford, a position he held from 2005 to 2014.

Khan’s journey from cricket to politics is well-documented. After retiring from an illustrious sports career, he turned to philanthropy, founding projects like the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital. His political career culminated in his election as Pakistan’s Prime Minister in 2018, a role he held until 2022. His tenure ended abruptly when he failed to secure a confidence vote, leading to his ouster. Khan subsequently became a vocal critic of Pakistan’s military establishment, rallying large crowds in his bid to regain power.

However, his political resurgence was cut short in August of the previous year when he was arrested on multiple charges, including corruption and inciting violence. Khan has spent the past year in prison, vehemently denying the allegations and claiming that they are politically motivated attempts to thwart his return to power. His ongoing legal troubles have not deterred him from seeking new avenues of influence, as evidenced by his application for the Oxford chancellorship.

As the process unfolds, the world will be watching to see whether Khan, despite his imprisonment, can secure one of the most prestigious academic positions in the world. His candidacy is a testament to his enduring influence and determination to remain a prominent figure, even in the face of significant personal and political challenges.