Oxford faces backlash over Imran Khan's bid for chancellorship: The Times

LONDON: The chancellorship at Oxford University has been overshadowed by the intricate interplay of Pakistani politics for the first time after Imran Khan submitted his papers and the university most likely did not predict the backlash his candidacy would provoke, The Times reported on Monday.

The contest is so hot that a legal opinion has been sought whether or not the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder meets the merit and there is considerable concern in Pakistan regarding the election, particularly in light of Khan's imprisonment, with many of his supporters believing that a victory would significantly increase the likelihood of him being released from prison, the paper said.

It said that for centuries, the chancellorship at Oxford University has been held by prominent male figures from the British establishment, typically until their death. However, following Lord Patten of Barnes's announcement of his retirement, fierce competition has erupted to become the figurehead of the world's most renowned university.

For the first time ever, Oxford will conduct its chancellorship election through an online popularity vote, inviting alumni to rank their preferred candidates in order of preference. The prominent names wanting to become the next Chancellor are: Lord William Hague, Lady Elish Angiolini, Lord Peter Mandelson, Imran Khan, Dr Margaret Casely-Hayford and Dominic Grieve.

Khan, 73, who read philosophy, politics, and economics at the Oxford before graduating in 1975, told The Times last month that he applied to run for chancellor to "give back" to the university that shaped his leadership skills.

However, since his interview, The Times said, legal advice regarding his eligibility for the role has been commissioned. "A leading barrister in London was approached by a party unrelated to the University of Oxford to express an opinion about the eligibility of Khan’s candidacy," said the paper.

Although the chancellorship might seem largely ceremonial and is not a paid position — except for covering expenses, it has been overshadowed by the intricate interplay of Pakistani politics.

"There is considerable concern in Pakistan regarding the election, particularly in light of Khan's imprisonment, with many of his supporters believing that a victory would significantly increase the likelihood of him being released from prison," said the paper.

Oxford will announce its list of approved candidates for the upcoming election this week, which will see participation from more than 26,000 registered alumni out of over 250,000 eligible voters.

Irene Tracey, the vice-chancellor, has confirmed that, due to the high number of candidates, the election will involve multiple rounds of voting, and the new chancellor is expected to be announced by the end of the year.

"Student opinion is sharply divided, with students and alumni split into pro- and anti-Khan camps. While an open letter, signed by hundreds of students, expresses support for the former cricket star, counter-protests oppose his candidacy for the role," said the paper.

The Times said that a letter, signed by about 170 current students and alumni, showed support for Khan's candidacy, focusing on his "lifelong commitment to public service" as well as accomplishments in cricket, philanthropy, and his previous role as chancellor of the University of Bradford.

It said that protesters against his candidacy — led by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) UK Youth Wing leader Khurram Butt — have delivered several petitions to the university and have allegedly been handing out leaflets promoting their views.