Dharamshala: Sikyong Penpa Tsering, having secured a second consecutive mandate by attaining a majority in the first phase of the 2026 Tibetan general election, was formally sworn in on 27 May 2026 as the head of the 17th Kashag of the Central Tibetan Administration.

Following Sikyong Penpa Tsering’s assumption of office, numerous messages of congratulations and best wishes were received from Tibetan and non-Tibetan institutions, civil society organisations, and individuals in recognition of his continued leadership. Among those extending their felicitations were ministers, legislators, and senior government officials, including Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung, Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Pema Khandu, and members of parliamentary support groups for Tibet from various countries. These messages were conveyed through personal correspondence, in-person greetings, emails, and other official channels. Many friends and supporters of Tibet have also shared their congratulations across various social media platforms through posts and tweets.

Likewise, on the afternoon of the swearing-in ceremony, a large number of Tibetans, attending either in their personal capacity or as representatives of various institutions and non-governmental organisations, gathered at the Sikyong’s office in the Kashag Secretariat to personally extend their felicitations and offer khatags (ceremonial scarves) as a mark of respect and goodwill. Among the visitors were members of the leadership and staff of the Central Tibetan Administration.