Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, has officially announced plans for a successor, ensuring the longevity of the Dalai Lama institution founded over 600 years ago. During a video message shared with his global followers, he emphasized that the Gaden Phodrang Trust will oversee the process of recognizing his reincarnation, a statement that has reignited tensions with Beijing, which asserts control over the matter.
Dalai Lama Asserts Future Successor Will Uphold Tibetan Tradition
Dalai Lama Asserts Future Successor Will Uphold Tibetan Tradition
Exiled Tibetan spiritual leader confirms the continuation of the Dalai Lama institution as celebrations for his 90th birthday begin.
The Dalai Lama's announcement this week in Dharamshala coincides with the festivities surrounding his 90th birthday, marking a significant moment for the Tibetan community. Followers from around the world, including monks clad in traditional maroon robes, gathered in anticipation of his words. "I am affirming that the institution of the Dalai Lama will continue," he stated, reasserting that only his appointed trust has the authority to determine his successor.
This declaration comes after years of speculation about the future of the post, with previous comments from the Dalai Lama hinting at various possibilities, including the potential for a female successor or the possibility of no successor at all. Nevertheless, growing support among Tibetans in exile has prompted a shift in his stance over recent years.
China’s response to the announcement was critical; officials insist any recognition of a successor needs to adhere to laws and regulations imposed from within China, a perspective that the Dalai Lama firmly opposes. "He is asserting that the decision about his reincarnation will not come from China," noted Robert Barnett, a Tibet scholar.
Despite ongoing efforts by China to diminish the Dalai Lama’s influence, Tibetan leaders expressed optimism about the reaffirmed institution. Tsayang Gyatso, a devoted follower, hailed the message as a source of relief, countering concerns about potential manipulation by Chinese authorities in the successor selection.
While Chinese officials are anticipated to attempt to appoint their own Dalai Lama, experts suggest that any such move may ignore the sentiments of the Tibetan people. "A Dalai Lama chosen by China will not be recognized by Tibetans or the world," asserted Youdon Aukatsang, a Tibetan parliamentarian.
As the celebrations unfold, the Dalai Lama’s legacy and the future of the Tibetan tradition remain in the spotlight. The ongoing tension between Tibetan self-determination and Chinese government control poses significant challenges ahead.
This declaration comes after years of speculation about the future of the post, with previous comments from the Dalai Lama hinting at various possibilities, including the potential for a female successor or the possibility of no successor at all. Nevertheless, growing support among Tibetans in exile has prompted a shift in his stance over recent years.
China’s response to the announcement was critical; officials insist any recognition of a successor needs to adhere to laws and regulations imposed from within China, a perspective that the Dalai Lama firmly opposes. "He is asserting that the decision about his reincarnation will not come from China," noted Robert Barnett, a Tibet scholar.
Despite ongoing efforts by China to diminish the Dalai Lama’s influence, Tibetan leaders expressed optimism about the reaffirmed institution. Tsayang Gyatso, a devoted follower, hailed the message as a source of relief, countering concerns about potential manipulation by Chinese authorities in the successor selection.
While Chinese officials are anticipated to attempt to appoint their own Dalai Lama, experts suggest that any such move may ignore the sentiments of the Tibetan people. "A Dalai Lama chosen by China will not be recognized by Tibetans or the world," asserted Youdon Aukatsang, a Tibetan parliamentarian.
As the celebrations unfold, the Dalai Lama’s legacy and the future of the Tibetan tradition remain in the spotlight. The ongoing tension between Tibetan self-determination and Chinese government control poses significant challenges ahead.
