Imran Khan, the incarcerated founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has announced his intention to run for the ceremonial position of Chancellor at Oxford University, citing his desire to “give back” to the institution that shaped his early years. However, this move has sparked significant backlash. The Guardian, a prominent UK newspaper, strongly opposed his candidacy, referring to him as “Taliban-friendly” and a “supporter” of former Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden.
Khan, currently in jail, stated that his application stems from a commitment to share the resilience, determination, and integrity he has gained throughout his life, even in the face of adversity. However, Oxford has reportedly received numerous emails expressing concern over his past support for the Taliban and his involvement in corruption cases.
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In a recent article, Guardian columnist Catherine Bennett criticized Khan’s controversial statements, including his reference to Osama bin Laden as a “martyr” and his praise for the Taliban’s actions in Afghanistan. She raised concerns about the potential impact of his views on the academic community at Oxford, particularly his comments on the Taliban’s treatment of women and his statements regarding women’s responsibility in cases of rape.
Bennett also criticized the support for Khan’s candidacy from figures like Conservative peer Lord Hannan, who called him “a towering figure” and a suitable candidate for Oxford’s chancellorship. The columnist compared the situation to the controversy surrounding social media influencer Andrew Tate, highlighting the divisive nature of Khan’s bid.
Oxford University has also received a petition challenging Khan’s candidacy due to his alleged alignment with extremist elements, particularly the Taliban. The petition cited his previous comments praising the Taliban as “freedom fighters” and his controversial suggestion to open a Taliban office in Pakistan.
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Khan, who graduated from Oxford’s Keble College in 1975 with a degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, previously served as the Chancellor of the University of Bradford from 2005 to 2014. He seeks to replace Chris Patten, a Conservative peer and the last British governor of Hong Kong, who recently resigned as Oxford’s chancellor. Meanwhile, Lady Elish Angiolini, a respected and apolitical figure with a distinguished career in law and academia, has emerged as a preferred alternative candidate for the role.