A King’s Counsel from Matrix Chambers, a leading UK law firm, stated on Tuesday that former Prime Minister Imran Khan is likely ineligible for the role of Chancellor at Oxford University due to the institution’s regulations.
Hugh Southey, a King’s Counsel at Matrix Chambers in London, expressed that Imran’s criminal convictions would likely disqualify him from candidacy. The policy advocacy group Beltway Grid analyzed Southey’s legal opinion concerning the Chancellor elections, highlighting potential legal challenges to Khan’s eligibility.
Southey, a seasoned legal professional called to the bar in 1996 and awarded Silk in 2010, emphasized the necessity of adhering to legal standards during this election process. His comments drew attention to Regulation 7(d) of Oxford’s Council Regulations 8 of 2002 and Section 178 of the Charities Act 2011, which outline criteria for trustees, including honesty and transparency. Given Khan’s legal history, there are questions about whether he meets these requirements under the “fit and proper person” test, which assesses trustee suitability.
Beltway Grid remarked on the implications of Khan’s ongoing involvement with his political party, the PTI, and his expressed intentions to seek the Prime Minister’s office again. The organization noted that the role of Chancellor demands a representative capable of upholding the university’s values without pursuing political ambitions during their term.
The Beltway Grid Policy Centre emphasized the need for Oxford to consider both legal compliance and ethical standards in the Chancellor election process, pointing out that Khan’s legal circumstances could significantly affect his eligibility.
Zulfi Bukhari, the international adviser to Imran Khan, remarked that Imran’s candidacy reflected his strong character and resolve.
Meanwhile, the Oxford Alumni Community of Pakistan voiced its opposition to politicizing Oxford’s name, clarifying that they do not support or oppose any specific candidate in the elections. They reiterated that their collective voice does not endorse any candidate and emphasized the importance of an independent electoral process.
Earlier this month, over 175 alumni and students signed a petition supporting Khan’s candidacy, reinforcing his credibility and backing among the university community.
