Jailed Pakistan's Ex-PM Imran Khan To Contest Elections For Oxford University Chancellor

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, currently imprisoned, has applied to become the next chancellor of Oxford University. His party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), announced this on social media platform X through Sayed Zulfikar Bukhari, Khan's London-based spokesman.

"Pakistan's national hero and Former Prime Minister Imran Khan, founder and chairman of Pakistan's biggest political party PTI, a cricketing legend, a philanthropist and an alumnus of Oxford University, is running for the position of Chancellor of Oxford University, all while being imprisoned," the PTI post read. "Despite being unlawfully incarcerated for over a year, Khan remains committed to his principles and the causes he champions. Zulfi Bukhari has confirmed that the application has been formally submitted," it added.

Imran Khan's Educational Background

Khan graduated from Oxford University in 1975 with a degree in philosophy, politics, and economics. During his cricket career, he was often featured in British gossip magazines for his "playboy" lifestyle. He married three times, including to British socialite Jemima Goldsmith. From 2005 to 2014, he served as chancellor of the University of Bradford.

Chris Patten, the last British governor of Hong Kong, announced in February that he would step down as Oxford chancellor. The list of candidates for the 10-year term will be revealed in October, with voting scheduled for the end of that month.

Khan's Political Journey

After his cricket career, Khan turned to philanthropy and politics. He served as Pakistan's Prime Minister from 2018 until 2022 when he was ousted following a vote of confidence loss. He then launched a comeback campaign against Pakistan's military leaders who had once supported him.

Khan was jailed in August last year on charges ranging from corruption to inciting violence. He recently marked one year in prison. The PTI founder claims these charges are politically motivated to prevent him from regaining power.

The announcement about Khan's application comes amid his ongoing legal battles and imprisonment. Despite these challenges, his commitment to his principles remains unwavering.