Melbourne, Australia: On 25 November 2025, Chief Election Commissioner Lobsang Yeshi of the Central Tibetan Administration provided awareness on the importance of the general elections and electoral regulations to the Tibetan community and members of the Regional Election Officers residing in Melbourne, Australia, in connection with the upcoming Sikyong and Parliamentary Elections.
In his address, the Chief Election Commissioner highlighted the significance of the Sikyong and Parliamentary Elections, explaining that they relate directly to the democratic election of the two principal pillars of democracy within the Central Tibetan Administration, the aspirations of Tibetans in exile, the restoration of freedom in Tibet, and the continuation of the non-violent struggle for truth and justice. He therefore emphasised the need for active participation by Tibetans in exile. Hence, he noted that it is essential for one to pay the voluntary contribution on time and register their name on the voter list in order to participate in the elections. “The deadline for voter registration is 30 November”, he reminded.
Referring to the electoral regulations, he highlighted the shared responsibility of ensuring that both individual voters and all regional election officers, at every level, carry out the election procedures in an equal, free, and confidential manner. He also pointed out that anyone who obstructs the election process may face penalties, including the revocation of voting rights and the invalidation of votes, as outlined in Articles 24 and 25 of the electoral rules and regulations.
The Chief Election Commissioner further brought up that the dates for the preliminary elections have been confirmed for 1 February 2026, and the final elections for 26 April 2026. He then addressed questions from the local community, Regional Election Officers, and observers regarding electoral regulations.
The Chief Election Commissioner is scheduled to raise awareness about electoral regulations in Brisbane on 26 and 27 November.
–Report filed by Election Commission, CTA
