Archbishop of Durban says China diverting focus from rights abuse

Wednesday, 9 April 2008, 4:17 p.m.

Pretoria:Archbishop of Durban
Wilfrid Cardinal Napier said Wednesday that Chinese authorities are
trying to divert world attention from their violations of human rights
perpetrated against the Tibetans by accusing His Holiness the Dalai
Lama of being responsible for the action of the Tibetan people to throw
off the shackles of oppression and abuse.

“It is a well-tested truism in any situation of war or conflict the first casualty is the truth,” he said.

He said, it is clear that those responsible for the sad state of
affairs have made false accusations against His Holiness the Dalai Lama
when the peaceful protests spread across many parts of Tibet. His
Holiness, by his personal life and charisma stands out as a beacon for
hope for the repressed Tibetans, he added.

“We, who know and respect His Holiness the Dalai Lama know
where the truth lies, and no amount of lying will change the truth that
is a reflection of God’s presence among his people, especially the poor
and downtrodden,” he said.

He offered his prayer for the protection of His Holiness the
Dalai Lama and all those who struggle for peace and harmony especially
using peaceful and non-aggressive means.

–Based on report filed by office of Tibet, Pretoria, South Africa