The 10th and final parliament meeting of the 15th Tibetan Parliament-in-exile (TPie) began this week, the last session before the Tibetan pre-elections get underway in October.
In his opening address, Speaker of the House Penpa Tsering spoke about the deteriorating political and human rights conditions inside Tibet under the repressive policies of Chinese Government. He emphasised the Tibetan Parliament’s ongoing concern with the plight of Tibetans in Tibet, and the need to resolve the issue of Tibet as soon as possible. The Speaker stressed that China’s current economic situation may bring social and political changes, events that should be carefully analysed by Tibetan Parliamentarians.
Speaker, Penpa Tsering addressing the inauguration of 10th parliament session
Photo: tibet.net
The session opened with discussion and debate on how to resolve the critical situation inside Tibet, and how the parliament can urge foreign governments and the international community to extend their support in resolving the plight of Tibetans. It was generally concluded in this discussion that China’s recently released White Paper on Tibet is mostly anti-Tibet propaganda, and that the Middle Way Approach remains the best possible solution to resolve the Tibet-China issue.
Five resolutions were passed on the first day: a resolution for solidarity with the sufferings of Tibetans inside Tibet, a resolution to mourn and pay homage for Tibetan self-immolators and also for the deaths of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, the former President of India, Sadhutsang Rinchen Dhondup, former Kalon (minister), and Gadong Tenzin Wangdak, former Kashang Secretary and the official medium for Gadhong oracle.
The 10th session of the 15th Parliament-in-exile in progress
Photo: phayul.com
Members of the Jhonang tradition, a Tibetan Buddhist faction not currently represented in the parliament, gathered near the parliament gate on Tuesday with posters and banners, demanding that their representatives be admitted to the TPie. Whilst a vote regarding this issue was held during the 9th Parliamentary session, the motion was unsuccessful and failed to receive the two thirds majority required to pass.
With the 10th Parliament session being carried out in the midst of election fever, Penpa Tsering emphasised the need for parliamentarians to abide by the rules of the House to prevent disparity between candidates. The aim of this session is to maintain the integrity of the House while parliamentary duties are carried out, ensuring that this final parliament meeting is as successful as those preceding it.
As the current session unfolds, all the seven departments under the Kashag will present their yearly report. The session will conclude on September 25.
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