Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan’s time in power was cut short in 2022, when a no-confidence vote removed him from office. Since then, Khan has been in prison and has been hit with several legal charges, including corruption and violating Pakistan’s Official Secrets Act.
Now, in a surprising twist, former Pakistan PM Imran Khan is aiming for a new title: Chancellor of Oxford University.
Pakistan's former Prime Minister, a FAMOUS OXONIAN, is running for the Chancellor election at Oxford University, marking a historic move. He would be the first leader to contest such a position after being unlawfully incarcerated for over a year in politically motivated cases,… pic.twitter.com/GI01sU6lFq
— PTI (@PTIofficial) August 29, 2024
The man who once led Pakistan is now setting his sights on one of the most prestigious academic roles in the world, despite being in prison and facing corruption charges. Even from his prison cell in Rawalpindi, he has planned his next big move.
This time, it’s not about Pakistani politics—it’s about stepping onto the global stage by becoming the Chancellor of Oxford University. Although the position is mostly ceremonial, it’s still a significant title. It comes with influence and prestige, which would keep Khan in the international spotlight. By going after this role, Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan is sending a clear message: He may be down, but he’s far from out.
Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan’s Oxford past
Imran Khan is not a stranger to Oxford. He studied Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) at Keble College from 1972 to 1975. During his time there, Khan also captained the university’s cricket team, building his reputation as a leader and a winner.
His time at Oxford sharpened his mind and improved his leadership skills. Imran Khan became famous as a cricketer when he led Pakistan to its first-ever Cricket World Cup win in 1992. His skill and leadership made him a national hero.
After retiring from cricket, Khan moved into politics and started the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party in 1996. His political career was marked by steady effort and growth, which led to his party winning the 2018 general elections.
When will voting take place?
With over 250,000 Oxford alumni set to vote, this Chancellor election is going to be huge. The online voting will start on October 28. The winner will serve a 10-year term, working alongside Oxford’s current Vice-Chancellor, Professor Irene Tracey.
The upcoming contest is expected to be challenging, with Khan facing prominent British political figures like former Tory UK Foreign Secretary Lord William Hague and former Labour Party minister Lord Peter Mandelson.
Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan’s bid for the Oxford Chancellor position has created a lot of buzz in the media, with debates happening on both sides of the Atlantic. As the election day gets closer, all eyes are on Oxford. The big question is whether the alumni will choose a former Prime Minister running his campaign from jail or go for a more traditional candidate.
No matter the outcome, Imran Khan Oxford Chancellor bid shows that he’s still making waves and staying in the spotlight.