Zürich, May 17 – 11 years ago today, the Chinese government forcibly kidnapped the then 6 year old Gedhun Choekyi Nyima. To mark this anniversary, unknown persons put up posters emblazoned with the word “Entführt” (Kidnapped) in prominent places in the cities of Zürich and Bern to raise awareness for his plight.
At the age of six, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima was recognised by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama as the reincarnation of the 10th Panchen Lama. Shortly afterwards, he and his parents were forcibly kidnapped by the Chinese government. After an initial long period of silence, China admitted that he and his family were being detained in an unknown location “for their own protection”. In his place, Beijing immediately installed a boy under their own influence as the Panchen Lama. The Chinese government’s Panchen Lama will never be able to win the respect of Tibetans.
“For over 10 years, the regime has stubbornly refused independent delegations access to him. As young Tibetans, we are highly concerned for his health and well-being as he is one of our most important spiritual leaders. This game of hide and seek must come to and end. Therefore we call upon Beijing to immediately release the real Panchen Lama, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima.” said Tenda Chokchampa, co-President of the Tibetan Youth Association in Europe.
Read the press release and see photos:
http://vtje.org/pressroom/
More information in German on the Panchen Lama and online action:
www.vtje.org/panchenlama
Contact:
Kelsang Gope +41 79 357 32 46
k.g@vtje.org
www.tibetanyouth.org
