Imran Khan likely to be barred from Oxford University chancellorship race: report

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan's candidacy for Oxford University's chancellorship has hit a roadblock due to concerns over his eligibility.

According to King's Counsel Hugh Southey from Matrix Chambers, Khan's criminal convictions may bar him from running for the prestigious position. 

Southey's legal opinion highlights the importance of adhering to Regulation 7(d) of Oxford's Council Regulations 8 of 2002 and Section 178 of the Charities Act 2011, which emphasise the need for honesty and transparency in trustees.

The 'fit and proper person' test, enforced by His Majesty's Revenue and Customs, is also a crucial factor in evaluating Khan's suitability.

Experts from the policy advocacy group Beltway Grid argue that Imran's active involvement in his political party, PTI, and his intentions to contest for Pakistan's prime ministership may not align with the requirements of the chancellor role.

"The role of Oxford’s Chancellor requires an individual who can represent the university’s global interests, uphold its values and not clearly be intent on taking political office during their Chancellorship. Additionally, the paper considers whether Imran's background and stances in governance and international relations are aligned with Oxford’s values," the statement read.

"The Beltway Grid Policy Centre team points to Oxford’s dire need to weigh legal compliance and ethical considerations in determining the next steps for the Chancellor's election. According to King’s Counsel Hugh Southey, the regulations governing the position have a direct impact on Khan’s eligibility," it added.

Earlier, a British newspaper reported that the university had sought legal counsel to determine the eligibility of the former prime minister as a potential chancellor candidate.

The election is set to take place in late October in a convocation of Oxford members and graduates of the university.

Mr Khan is an Alumni of Oxford University, who graduated from Keble College at the varsity in 1975. He read philosophy, politics, and economics during his time there and even captained the university’s cricket team.

Imran Khan had also served as the chancellor of Bradford University from 2005 to 2014.

Earlier in August this year, Conservative peer Lord Daniel Hannan and independent MPs Shockat Adam and Adnan Hussain threw their support behind Mr Khan to become the next Chancellor of the prestigious Oxford University.

Later this month, over 170 alumni, staff members, and current students signed a petition in his favour.