The Chancellor of the University of Oxford is a prestigious position, primarily ceremonial, with significant influence in the university’s governance. However, it is not as big a post as Premiership of a Nuclear State. Even if Imran Khan wins the election he would consider himself demoted from the heavens to the ground even if that is a promotion from his tenure as Chancellor of the University of Bradford from 2005 to 2014. It is same like his old Pepsi commercial days or him being offered Chairman PCB post by Musharaf.
Here’s the general criteria and process for election:
1. Eligibility
- No Formal Requirements: There are no formal academic or professional prerequisites to be elected as Chancellor. The role is often filled by individuals with distinguished careers in public service, academia, or other fields. Is Imran Khan, known for his Taliban-friendly stance, truly the best candidate for Oxford’s next chancellor?
- Honorary Position: The Chancellor is not typically a current member of the university’s academic or administrative staff.
2. Nomination
- Candidate Nomination: Candidates must be nominated by at least two members of the University’s Convocation, which includes all alumni who hold Oxford degrees.
- Acceptance of Nomination: The nominee must accept the nomination to stand for election.
3. Election Process
- Convocation Voting: The election is decided by a vote of the Convocation, which includes all graduates of the university who are eligible to vote.
- Voting Method: Voting can be conducted by post or, more traditionally, in person, with ballots cast in a ceremonial setting.
- No Fixed Term: The Chancellor is usually elected for life or until they choose to step down.
4. Influence and Role
- Ceremonial Role: The Chancellor represents the university at major events and ceremonies.
- Advisory Role: The Chancellor may also offer advice to the university’s leadership, though they do not typically involve themselves in day-to-day management.
The position is a blend of tradition, influence, and honor, reflecting the Chancellor’s standing within both the university and the wider community.
Contrast the degrees of Bilawal, Benazir and Imran Khan
About the campaign
Neither Qasim nor Salman, the sons of Imran Khan, are students at Oxford University. Nor do they have any prominent friends/mutuals who are Oxford Graduates. They have been contrasting his life with Nawaz Sharif by fabricating fake news. Nawaz Sharif’s case might be used as part of broader discussions on corruption and governance in various academic settings, but not as a dedicated case study at a particular university. Prominent figures supporting Imran Khan include Conservative peer Lord Daniel Hannan, independent MPs Shockat Adam and Adnan Hussain, as well as Kaveh Moussavi, a Human Rights Lawyer, former Head of Public Interest Law at Oxford University, and an Arbitrator at the International Court of Arbitration, who backs Khan despite an earlier feud.
Who are the nominees for the post of Chancellor of Oxford University?
Lady Angiolini is the principal of St Hugh’s College and led the inquiry into the murder of Sarah Everard. Imran Khan, a former Prime Minister of Pakistan, is currently imprisoned on corruption charges. William Hague is a former Conservative Party leader, while Peter Mandelson was a key figure in the New Labour governments. Voting for the chancellor position will take place at the end of October and, for the first time, will be conducted online rather than requiring in-person attendance. The University is expected to announce the candidates in early October. Chris Patten has held the position of Chancellor since 2003.
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Lord William Hague – Former Leader of the Conservative Party and Leader of the Opposition.
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Lord Peter Mandelson – A prominent Labour Party politician, known for his significant influence within the party.
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Imran Khan – Former Prime Minister of Pakistan, currently running from prison as a convict to divert attention from his corruption and seek a respite.
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Elish Angiolini – Current Pro Vice-Chancellor of the University and a notable figure in legal circles.
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Public Support: Khan’s application and potential election from prison could be seen as a symbol of resilience against what many of his supporters believe are politically motivated charges. This could enhance his moral standing among those who view him as a victim of political vendetta.
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International Prestige: Being elected to such a prestigious position could be interpreted as an international endorsement of his character and capabilities, potentially bolstering his moral authority in the eyes of his supporters and possibly some international observers.
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Criticism: Conversely, critics might argue that running for such a position from prison, especially on charges related to corruption and state secrets, could undermine his moral standing. They might view this as an attempt to gain legitimacy or distraction from legal issues.
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University’s Reputation: Oxford University’s decision to allow or not allow Khan to run could also influence perceptions. If seen as a move towards inclusivity or recognizing past contributions, it might be viewed positively; if seen as controversial or divisive, it could be criticized.
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Dual Roles: The Pakistani Constitution does not explicitly address the scenario where a Pakistani national holds a significant foreign academic position like the Chancellor of Oxford University. However, there are general principles:
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Conflict of Interest: Holding such a high-profile international position might raise questions about divided loyalties or time commitment, though the role of Chancellor at Oxford is largely ceremonial.
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Legal Status: Khan’s current legal situation, including convictions and disqualifications from holding public office, would need resolution or appeal before he could legally run for Prime Minister again.
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Electoral Eligibility: If Khan’s legal issues are resolved or overturned, and assuming he’s not barred by any constitutional amendments or court decisions post his ousting, he could theoretically run for Prime Minister. However,
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Public Office Limitation: There’s a precedent in Pakistan where individuals convicted of certain offenses are barred from holding public office for a period. If these convictions stand, they would legally prevent him from running for Prime Minister, regardless of his status as Chancellor of Oxford.
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Public Perception and Political Strategy: His candidacy for Oxford’s Chancellor might be seen as a strategic move to maintain or regain political relevance and could influence public opinion in Pakistan, potentially affecting his eligibility or support in future elections.
He later condemned the attack on Salman Rushdie because Zac Goldsmith, during Khan’s mayoral campaign, urged him to align with “British values.”