The Guardian Criticizes Imran Khan’s Nomination for Oxford University Chancellor
The British newspaper The Guardian has published a critical column against Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), regarding his candidacy for the position of Chancellor at Oxford University. The newspaper described Imran Khan as a “friend of the Taliban” and expressed concerns about his suitability for the role, suggesting that his nomination is an insult to the women of Oxford, including both current students and alumni.
Imran Khan’s Controversial Stances
The Guardian highlighted several of Khan’s controversial positions, including his support for the Taliban’s ban on women’s education and his praise of Osama bin Laden as a martyr. The article questioned whether someone with such views should be allowed to run for the chancellorship of a prestigious institution like Oxford University.
Comparisons and Alternatives
The newspaper compared Imran Khan to social media influencer Andrew Tate, known for his controversial statements about women. In contrast, the article praised Lady Elish Angiolini, a respected figure who has announced her candidacy for the same position. The Guardian described Angiolini as an asset to Oxford University and emphasized her commitment to making education more accessible to underprivileged students.
Legal and Practical Concerns
The article also pointed out practical issues with Khan’s candidacy, noting that the term of the Chancellor of Oxford University lasts for a decade, requiring the individual to be available throughout the year. Given that Khan is currently serving a 14-year prison sentence, the Guardian questioned how he could fulfill the responsibilities of the position.
Impact on Imran Khan’s Candidacy
The article concluded that Imran Khan’s chances of becoming Chancellor have likely been severely affected by the publication of these concerns, as they raise significant questions about his suitability for the role. Another British newspaper, The Daily Mail, also criticized Khan’s candidacy, calling him a “disgraceful” former prime minister.