Dharamshala: In a written statement issued today, Sikyong Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration expressed deep sorrow over the self-immolation of a Tibetan activist, Lobga Rangzen (Lobsang Palden), in front of the UN Headquarters in New York City on 2 July 2026. In a video message released hours before the incident, Lobga stated that his ultimate sacrifice was made for the Tibetan national cause.

Sikyong wrote, “While we honour his devotion, human life is precious and must be preserved to serve the long-term struggle for Tibet. On behalf of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), I earnestly urge all fellow Tibetans to cherish your lives. The unfolding genocide inside Tibet and the enforcement of the draconian ‘Ethnic Unity and Progress Law’ on 1 July are what drove Lobga Rangzen to this tragic decision. He joins at least 157 Tibetans inside Tibet who have offered their lives to draw global attention to the brutal repression endured under Chinese rule.”

Sikyong extended his deepest condolences to Lobga Rangzen’s family, friends, and the entire Tibetan community. On behalf of the Central Tibetan Administration and the Tibetan people, he solemnly pledged that Tibetans would carry the spirit of these sacrifices in their hearts and work tirelessly to ensure they were not in vain.

Sikyong also urgently called upon Tibetans in exile, governments around the world, and international human rights institutions to recognise the severity of the crisis inside Tibet, to stand up, and to speak out at this critical moment in Tibetan history.