Penpa Tsering Secures Second Term as Tibetan Exile Leader in Decisive Election
The Election Commission of the Central Tibetan Administration officially announced on Friday that the incumbent Sikyong, Penpa Tsering, has been re-elected as the leader of the Tibetan government-in-exile. This declaration follows a preliminary election round where Tsering achieved a commanding majority of the votes cast.
Landslide Victory with Over 61% of Votes
According to the official results released by the commission, Penpa Tsering received an impressive 61.025% of the total votes. This substantial margin triggered a specific election rule: when a candidate secures more than 60% of votes in the preliminary round, no final runoff is required, and that candidate is immediately declared the elected Sikyong.
The election saw significant participation, with a total of 51,140 Tibetans exercising their voting rights. The race featured 103 candidates vying for the position. Following Tsering, the other top contenders were Kelsang Dorjee Aukatsang, who garnered 17,843 votes, and Tsering Phuntsok, who received 159 votes.
Comprehensive Election Process and Parliamentary Announcements
In addition to the Sikyong election results, the Election Commission provided detailed updates on the broader electoral process for the Tibetan community in exile. The commission has shortlisted candidates for the upcoming 18th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile from various regional and religious constituencies.
The shortlisted candidates include:
- 30 candidates from each of Tibet's three traditional provinces.
- 6 candidates each from the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism and the Bon religion.
- 6 candidates each from the regions of North & South America, and Europe & Africa.
- 3 candidates from Australasia, specifically excluding communities in India, Nepal, and Bhutan.
Critical Deadlines for Parliamentary Candidates
The Election Commissioner outlined strict deadlines for candidates involved in the parliamentary elections. All individuals who have been shortlisted must formally confirm their candidature by 27 February 2026. This confirmation requires submitting an official letter to the Election Commission through their respective local election offices.
Furthermore, the commission stated that any candidate wishing to withdraw from the race must submit a written request to the Election Commission no later than 28 February 2026. These procedures are designed to ensure a transparent and orderly election process for the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile.
This election marks a significant moment for the Tibetan diaspora, reaffirming Penpa Tsering's leadership as the community continues its political and cultural advocacy from exile. The structured approach to both the Sikyong and parliamentary elections underscores the administration's commitment to democratic principles within its governance framework.
