ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is currently imprisoned, has applied to become the next chancellor of the University of Oxford, his party announced. Khan, who served as prime minister from 2018 to 2022, is facing various charges including corruption and inciting violence, which he claims are politically motivated attempts to prevent him from returning to power.

Sayed Zulfikar Bukhari, a spokesperson for Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, confirmed the application, noting that it is now under review. Bukhari highlighted the significance of the chancellor’s role, describing it as a prestigious and ceremonial position. He expressed enthusiasm about the possibility of Khan, a notable Oxford alumnus, taking on the role.

Conservative peer Chris Patten, the current Oxford chancellor and the last British governor of Hong Kong, announced his resignation in February. The candidates for the chancellor position will be revealed in October, with voting scheduled for the end of the month.

Khan, who graduated from Oxford in 1975 with a degree in philosophy, politics, and economics, previously led a high-profile career as a cricketer and socialite, appearing frequently in British media. His personal life includes three marriages, one of which was to British socialite and filmmaker Jemima Goldsmith. After retiring from cricket, he focused on philanthropy and entered politics.

During his tenure as prime minister, Khan faced criticism from women’s rights groups for linking high rates of sexual violence in Pakistan to women’s clothing. After being ousted from office in 2022, he mounted a comeback campaign, attracting large crowds and criticising the military establishment that once supported him.

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If elected, Khan would become the first Oxford chancellor of Asian descent, marking a significant achievement for both Pakistan and Asia. Other notable applicants include former British Foreign Secretary William Hague and former EU Trade Commissioner Peter Mandelson.

-Agencies