Brisbane, Australia: Chief Election Commissioner Lobsang Yeshi concluded his tour in Australia to raise awareness about the upcoming Tibetan general election on 27 November 2025 after delivering a talk on the electoral rules to the Tibetan community and Regional election officers in Brisbane, Queensland.
In his address, the Chief Election Commissioner emphasised that Tibetans in exile must participate in the elections in order to maintain and strengthen the Central Tibetan Administration and to continue the Tibetan people’s struggle for freedom and justice. He highlighted that the general election is an important opportunity for Tibetans to demonstrate their collective strength.
At this critical time, when the Chinese Communist government and individuals and organisations under its influence are distorting Tibetan history and implementing policies aimed at eradicating Tibetan identity, he stressed the importance of unity among Tibetans in exile to confront these challenges and fulfil their responsibilities as Tibetans.
He stated that, according to the electoral rules, individual voters and all election personnel, both senior and junior, share the responsibility of ensuring that the general election is conducted in an equal, free, and confidential manner. He further highlighted that on polling day, mobile phones are not permitted, nor is the distribution of leaflets. He clarified that anyone who spreads false information about Election Commission’s procedures or obstructs the electoral process may face penalties, including the revocation of voting rights and the invalidation of ballots, as outlined in Articles 24 and 25 of the Electoral Rules and Regulations of the Central Tibetan Administration. He urged the public to remain vigilant about false information and rumours that could create instability or conflict within Tibetan community during the election period, advising them not to circulate such content.
The Representative cum Local Election Commissioner, Karma Singey, commended the comprehensive arrangements made throughout the Chief Election Commissioner’s tour and recognised the importance of the general election process. He also thanked the local Tibetan associations for their excellent organisational support and encouraged the Australian Tibetan community to actively participate in the upcoming elections.
He reminded the gathering that the preliminary election is scheduled for 1 February 2026, and the final election for 26 April 2026. Questions from local residents, regional election officers, and observers regarding the electoral rules were addressed with clear explanations.
–Report filed by Election Commission, CTA
