Oxford University Faces Legal Challenge Over Exclusion of Imran Khan from Chancellor Nominee List

Oxford University is facing potential legal action for excluding Imran Khan, founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), from the list of candidates for Chancellor. PTI’s international coordinator and advisor Zulfi Bukhari has formally sought a response from the university through legal counsel, claiming that Khan’s omission is unfair and politically motivated.

In a letter, lawyers for Khan have requested clarification from Oxford, warning that failure to provide a written explanation may lead to further legal steps. Sources indicate that Oxford University excluded Khan due to his conviction in the Toshakhana case and his current imprisonment, with no clear timeline for his release. Zulfi Bukhari argues that Khan’s sentence is politically driven and claims this rationale was presented to Oxford, alongside support from the UN Arbitrary Detention Group and Amnesty International.

Bukhari emphasized that allowing Imran Khan’s candidacy would enhance the university’s reputation.