Oxford University seeks legal advice over Imran Khan's chancellorship bid

Oxford University has found itself entangled in a complicated situation regarding the election of its new chancellor, due to the involvement of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, sources said on Tuesday.

According to a British newspaper report, the university initially considered the process straightforward but has now sought legal counsel to determine the eligibility of the former prime minister as a potential chancellor candidate.

The controversy arose after Lord Patten of Barnes announced his retirement, triggering a competitive race for the esteemed position. 

For the first time, the prestigious varsity will elect its chancellor through an online popular vote, allowing alumni to rank candidates in order of preference.

The notable candidates vying for the position include Lord William League, William Hague , Elish Angiolini, and Harold Macmillan. 

The university is expected to announce the eligible candidates for the chancellor election this week.

The university's decision to seek legal opinion underscores the complexity and sensitivity surrounding the involvement of the PTI founder in the election.

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.