OXFORD (The Thursday Times) — Oxford University has formally disqualified Imran Khan from its chancellorship race, a move that has drawn widespread attention due to the former Pakistani prime minister’s controversial background. Khan, who has been incarcerated since 2023, attempted to contest the ceremonial role despite facing numerous criminal charges, including corruption and inciting violence. His exclusion from the race came after petitions were submitted urging Oxford to bar him, citing ethical concerns about his suitability for the prestigious role.
Ethical concerns loom large
The petitions against Khan’s candidacy outlined several issues. Key among them were allegations surrounding his administration’s handling of a £190 million settlement between Pakistan and British property tycoon Malik Riaz. Khan’s critics argue that this settlement, alongside his alleged misappropriation of state gifts, paints a picture of a man entangled in financial misconduct. Oxford alumni and political observers raised concerns about the message his candidacy would send to the university’s global community, particularly given his conviction for corruption charges in Pakistan.
Misogynistic remarks spark outrage
Khan’s disqualification also hinged on his controversial remarks on women’s rights. His previous statements attributing sexual violence to women’s clothing choices stirred global outrage. Critics highlighted these views as emblematic of his regressive attitude towards gender equality, which was seen as incompatible with Oxford’s commitment to upholding human rights and ethical standards. These comments were a key point raised in the petition, which called for the university to maintain its reputation by refusing to align with such views.
The Taliban connection
Further compounding the case against Khan was his perceived sympathy towards the Taliban. After the fall of Kabul, Khan commented that Afghanistan had “broken the shackles of slavery,” a statement widely interpreted as an endorsement of the Taliban’s regime. Such views were deemed antithetical to the values of an institution like Oxford, which prides itself on promoting critical thinking and upholding human rights. Critics argued that his past remarks revealed a troubling worldview that conflicted with the principles of the academic institution.
Political motivations questioned
Khan’s supporters have framed his chancellorship bid as a political manoeuvre, suggesting that he sought to gain international attention as his political future in Pakistan remains uncertain. However, detractors pointed out that this was not Khan’s first engagement with British academia—he previously served as Chancellor of the University of Bradford. Yet, his resignation from that position in 2014 was preceded by student-led protests and a vote of no confidence, adding fuel to arguments that his candidacy for Oxford’s top role was politically motivated rather than a genuine bid to serve the university.
Oxford upholds its reputation
In disqualifying Khan, Oxford University has sent a clear message about the importance of ethical leadership. The institution, which prides itself on its rigorous academic and moral standards, was unwilling to compromise its values for the sake of a high-profile candidate. Khan’s bid, while a headline-grabbing endeavour, ultimately failed to resonate with the university’s vision of leadership.
