I believe that it is imperative that we establish a process which will allow Tibetans, with proven leadership skills, to put their names forward as candidates in the 2011 elections.
Over the years, the Tibetan Diaspora has benefited from many gifted and skillful political leaders who have served us well. I hope many of these will opt to run for the office of Kalon Tripa in this upcoming election.
There are, however, other Tibetans who have opinions and ideas that have the support of large numbers of followers, particularly the young, who are ready to play a leadership role in our community. It is important to engage our youth in the election process. The upcoming election offers an excellent opportunity to do so. 75% of the exile population today is under the age of 45. The participation of this demographic is vital to the life and vibrancy of our political process.
It is by generating a wealth of candidates, each offering a diversity of positions, that the next Kalon Tripa election could provide us with a true choice! Our constituents in the Diaspora are a people of divergent and distinct viewpoints. It stands to reason that they require leaders who reflect their varied perspectives and experiences — candidates who can speak for them and around whom they can truly rally.
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