A leading King’s Counsel from the UK’s prominent law firm, Matrix Chambers, has stated that former Prime Minister Imran Khan is ineligible to run for Oxford University’s Chancellorship due to his criminal conviction. The legal opinion, provided by Hugh Southey, raises questions about Khan’s candidacy in light of the university’s regulations.
Southey, a distinguished legal figure, noted: “In my opinion, Imran is unlikely to be eligible to be a candidate in light of one of his criminal convictions.” His legal analysis is based on Oxford’s Council Regulations 8 of 2002 and Section 178 of the Charities Act 2011, which outline criteria for serving as a trustee, emphasizing honesty and transparency.
Policy advocacy group Beltway Grid, which reviewed Southey’s opinion, highlighted the potential challenges Oxford University may face in navigating the legal obligations tied to this election. The group stressed that Khan’s candidacy should be examined under the “fit and proper person” test, used by His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs to evaluate trustee suitability.
Southey’s extensive experience, including cases before the UK Supreme Court, underscores the significance of adhering to legal standards. Legal experts are now considering whether Khan’s candidacy meets the stringent criteria required for the prestigious role of Chancellor.
Beltway Grid’s report pointed out that while Khan does not hold political office in Pakistan, he remains actively involved in his party, PTI, and has public aspirations to once again contest for the office of Prime Minister. The group emphasized that the role of Oxford’s Chancellor demands a representative who aligns with the university’s values and is not actively seeking political office.
In response to the ongoing debate, the Oxford Alumni Community of Pakistan distanced itself from claims in the media that suggested it supports or opposes any candidate for the Chancellorship. In a statement, the group clarified, “We categorically deny any claim suggesting that as a forum, we support or oppose any specific candidate in the Chancellor Elections.” They emphasized that no public endorsements or oppositions have been made by the alumni body.