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Tibetans Worldwide Vote for "Sikyong" in Exile, Defying Chinese Pressure

The Tibetan exile community conducted preliminary voting to elect its political leader, the Sikyong, and parliament members in a unique global election spanning 27 countries. The Central Tibetan Administration's Chief Election Commissioner described the strong turnout as a sign Tibetans remain committed to their cause despite the occupation of their homeland. Officials acknowledged diplomatic pressures from China created challenges in establishing polling booths in some nations. The final phase of the election is set for April, with the process framed as vital for leading the struggle for a "free Tibet."

Key Points: Tibetan Exiles Vote for Leader in Global Election

  • Preliminary voting held across 27 countries
  • Final election phase scheduled for April
  • Process faces diplomatic hurdles in some nations
  • Election is about leading the freedom cause
2 min read

"This is a sign Tibetans haven't given up": CTA's Chief Election Commissioner Yeshi on polls to elect 'Sikyong'

Tibetan exile community holds preliminary election across 27 countries to elect Sikyong, signaling continued pursuit of a "free Tibet" despite challenges.

"This is a message to China that Tibetans in exile have not given up. - Geshe Lhakdor"

Dharamshala, February 1

Members of the Tibetan exile community worldwide voted on Sunday to elect the Sikyong and members of the 18th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, as polling for the preliminary phase of the two-phase election was held. The Central Tibetan Administration's Chief Election Commissioner, Lobsang Yeshi, described the polling as a sign that Tibetans haven't given up.

The voting process, described as unique, is being conducted across 27 countries, with approximately 91,000 registered voters and 309 polling zones set up globally. The final phase of the election is scheduled to be held in April.

Voters expressed enthusiasm for participating in the democratic process, underscoring the importance of the elections to the Tibetan cause.

Speaking to ANI, Chief Election Commissioner Lobsang Yeshi said the polling was progressing smoothly and witnessed strong participation.

"It's going great, everybody's excited, and I hope that the participation will be more, as, according to the registered voters, we have the largest voters this time," Yeshi said.

Highlighting the exercise's uniqueness, he added that the election goes beyond routine governance.

"It is unique in the sense that no other nation or entity has such an election that is being held in 27 countries around the world. This election is not just for governance or administration but is more about electing leadership for leading the cause of freedom of Tibet," he said.

Yeshi acknowledged that polling faced challenges in some countries due to diplomatic sensitivities.

"Definitely, there are a few countries where polling booths face little difficulty, as those nations have diplomatic relations with China, and because of those pressures, sometimes we face hurdles," he said, expressing hope that polling would take place across all locations.

Yeshi said that the CTA represents the actual governance of 7 million Tibetans. He said that despite the "occupation", Tibetans still aspire for a "free Tibet".

Yeshi said, " We, the organisation CTA, are actually a government in exile of Tibetans which represents the actual governance of 7 million Tibetans, and the cause is still in progress, and despite the occupation of our country, Tibetans still aspire for a free Tibet."

Geshe Lhakdor, Director of the Tibetan Library, said the elections conveyed a strong message to China.

"This is a message to China that Tibetans in exile have not given up," he told ANI.

The polling process is being conducted under the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), which functions as the Tibetan government-in-exile and represents the aspirations of Tibetans living outside Tibet.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While I respect their struggle, as an Indian, our primary focus must remain on our own national interests and maintaining stable relations with all neighbors. These are complex geopolitical matters.
A
Aman W
Dharamshala has been a gracious host for decades. India's support for Tibetan refugees is a testament to our humanitarian values. However, the government must tread carefully given the diplomatic tightrope with China.
S
Sarah B
The determination is admirable, but calling it a "government" representing 7 million people when the vote is only among 91,000 in exile seems like a stretch. The narrative feels oversimplified.
V
Vikram M
The Tibetan cause has deep cultural and spiritual significance. Many Indians feel a connection through Buddhism. It's more than politics; it's about preserving a unique heritage under threat.
K
Karthik V
Interesting to see this reported. The challenges they mention in countries with China ties highlight the realpolitik at play. India's position is delicate but important as a democratic counterweight in the region.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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