Penpa Tsering Sworn In As Tibet’s ‘Government-In-Exile’ Head For Second Term In Dharamshala

The head of Tibet’s “government-in-exile”, Penpa Tsering, was sworn in for a second consecutive term on Wednesday in Dharamshala after his re-election earlier this year, formally beginning the new tenure of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) .

The oath-taking ceremony was held in McLeod Ganj in the presence of the Dalai Lama , senior Tibetan monastic leaders, CTA officials, and international supporters. The oath was administered by the Chief Justice Commissioner of the Tibetan Supreme Justice Commission , marking the formal constitution of the 17th Kashag (cabinet) .

Penpa Tsering reaffirmed his commitment to the Middle Way Policy , which seeks a peaceful resolution of the Tibet–China issue through non-violence, dialogue, and mutual benefit. He said the administration would continue backchannel communication with caution and steadiness with China, despite what he described as limited space for engagement.

He accused the Chinese government of pursuing policies aimed at “erasing Tibetan identity” , including restrictions on language, religion, and cultural expression. He also alleged that misinformation campaigns were being used to weaken Tibetan unity.

Reiterating the CTA’s political direction, he said the administration would continue functioning as a democratically elected exile government , focused on long-term sustainability of the Tibetan cause and welfare of Tibetans inside and outside Tibet. He stressed that the Kashag remains guided by the Dalai Lama’s counsel.

Penpa Tsering expressed gratitude to India, the United States, and other countries for continued political and humanitarian support. He also highlighted international backing for keeping the Tibetan issue active in global forums.

He secured a decisive mandate in the February 2026 elections, winning a clear majority and extending his leadership for another five-year term. He previously assumed office in 2021 and has also served as Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile.

The CTA announced upcoming cultural programmes, including a Tibetan cultural festival in Dharamshala from May 28 to 30, aimed at preserving Tibetan language, culture, and identity.

India continues to host the world’s largest Tibetan diaspora, with refugees preserving their cultural and religious traditions since 1959 under the CTA framework in exile.