By Choekyi Lhamo
DHARAMSHALA, May 27: Tibetans across the world witnessed the transition of power from former President Dr. Lobsang Sangay to the new President Penpa Tsering of the Tibetan government-in-exile, officially known as the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) on Thursday. The ceremony where Chief Supreme Justice Commissioner Sonam Norbu Dagpo administered the oath of office was broadcasted worldwide via CTA run medium, Tibet TV online.
Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama who took part in the ceremony virtually congratulated both the new and outgoing political heads for their commitment to lead the Tibetan people through the struggle, “The transition from the administration in Tibet into the democratic system we have now is not a farce but a reality. Some Chinese still criticize us for our old traditions but over 1 lakh Tibetans in exile have chosen to participate in democratic elections in a free country. What is unique in our community is also how democracy is allowed to thrive within the framework of Buddhist ideology. I congratulate both the new Sikyong and the former Sikyong for your services.”
The Dalai Lama devolved all his political power in 2011, and ushered in a system for a democratically elected Kalon Tripa or later known as Sikyong, the highest seat in the exile Tibetan polity.
The new President Penpa Tsering in his first public address said, “I reiterate my commitment to direct all my energies in carrying out the responsibility of finding a lasting solution for the Sino-Tibet conflict and look after the welfare of the Tibetan people. I shall be bound by the faith and trust on the Charter and shall fulfill all my responsibilities in compliance by the provisions therein transcending selfish bias, fear and prejudice, and guided by justness and well intentioned, beyond pretense.”
He also mentioned the recently published White paper documents by the CCP, “The Chinese government on 21st May issued a white paper titled ‘Tibet Since 1951, Liberation, Development and Prosperity’. I can say today that we are open to sending people [representatives] to verify all the claims made in the white paper.” Former Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile (TPiE) said that he will not shy away from calling “gross mistakes of the Chinese policies and programs and seek to redress, withdraw or amend the wrong policies” but is keen on putting every effort to work towards realizing the wish of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to visit China.
The strong-worded address touched upon various facets of the Tibetan democratic polity, including working with different autonomous bodies in the CTA, facilitating media by upholding their freedom, incorporating the efforts of the civil society to strengthen the cause and maintaining transparency by being answerable to the general public.
The 53-year-old said that difference of opinion in the public discourse is indispensable in a democratic society, and that the community needs to recognize the real enemy, “We should realize and recognize our true opponent. We lost our country and are political refugees. We all share the common goal of resolving the Sino-Tibet conflict.”
One Response
I warmly congratulate the election of the new Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in exile, Penpa Tséring, as well as Lobsang Sangay for his efficient work; The Dalai Lama has succeeded in installing democracy for his people in exile, which is absolutely remarkable. I admire everything you put in place, with courage and extreme competence.
The corona virus is shaking the whole planet, my wishes for an improvement of the situation at home and in the world are with you.
I do my best to publicize the Tibetan reality around me, and through two pro-Tibetan associations of which I am a part: France-Tibet and Tibet Vallée de la Drôme. Let us remain hopeful that Tibet can one day become independent again, or at least that freedom finally exists.
I carry you in my prayers.
With my regards.
Philippe Eyraud France