Kathmandu: Phurbu Tashi has been re-elected by the local Tibetan community as the Tibetan Settlement Officer (TSO) of Choejor for his second consecutive term, marking the eighth tenure of the Settlement Officer. His previous term, the seventh, was successfully completed from 27 June 2022 to 26 June 2025, fulfilling the full three-year duration. Following his re-election, he officially assumed office for the new term on 27 June 2025.

To formally commemorate his reappointment, a public gathering was held on 30 July. The event was graced by the presence of the chief guest, Representative Tsipri Lopen Tulku Ngawang Chokdup. Distinguished guests in attendance included Members of the 17th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, Tashi Dhondup and Sonam Norbu Ratsa, former Parliamentarian Dolma Tsomo, and Secretary of the Office of Tibet, Karma Gyaltsen.

Also present were the President of the Choejor Local Tibetan Assembly, Tibetan Settlement Officers from Gyalphak and Jawalakhel Samdupling, the President of the Regional Tibetan Freedom Movement, the Director of the Snowlion Foundation, and representatives from various Tibetan civil society organisations and institutions. The gathering was attended by over 600 members of the community.

During the event, Settlement Officer Phurbu Tashi addressed the audience, reflecting on his experiences from the previous term and outlining his plans and commitments for the years ahead. The chief guest delivered an address highlighting the profound contributions of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. He emphasised that, despite living in exile, Tibetans enjoy a peaceful and contented life due to His Holiness’ benevolent contributions. He then called for continued unity among Tibetans under the leadership of the Central Tibetan Administration in pursuit of freedom and justice for Tibetan people.

The ceremony concluded with the offering of traditional white scarves (khatags) to Settlement Officer Phurbu Tashi by all the attendees, followed by a vote of thanks delivered by settlement accountant Tenzin Chodron.

-Report filed by Tibetan Refugee Welfare Office, Kathmandu