LONDON (THE THURSDAY TIMES) — Imran Khan’s bid for the position of Chancellor at Oxford University has sparked significant controversy, particularly in the UK media. The Guardian, a leading British newspaper, has been at the forefront of this criticism, questioning Khan’s suitability for such a prestigious role.
In an article published in The Guardian’s Observer section, described Khan’s nomination as an “affront to women” and highlighted his controversial past, including his alleged support for the Taliban and comments on Osama bin Laden, whom he once referred to as a “martyr.” The letter also pointed out that Khan had refused to call bin Laden a terrorist, raising further doubts about his values aligning with those of Oxford University.
The criticism extended to Khan’s praise for the Taliban, whom he congratulated for “breaking the shackles of slavery” following their takeover of Afghanistan. Khan has also been criticized for excusing the Taliban’s ban on women’s education, and his controversial views on rape, where he suggested that women should remove “temptation” because “not everyone has willpower.”
The article in The Guardian questioned how someone currently serving a 14-year prison sentence could effectively fulfill the decade-long commitment required of Oxford’s Chancellor. It also drew parallels between Khan and controversial figures like Andrew Tate, further undermining his candidacy.
This criticism has been echoed by other British media outlets, including The Daily Mail, which previously reported a flood of complaints against Khan’s candidacy, labeling him a “disgraced” former prime minister and raising doubts about his fitness for the role.
