US$1.5 million siphoned by Tibetan government

WHAT IS HAPPENING IN DHARAMSALA?

Oh my!! This sounds like a can of worms being opened! This is really bringing to the fore front what must have been happening in the background. As is being asked in the article, how much have been moved underground?

So, the CTA really cannot be trusted to manage the huge amount of funds that a more established government is expected to manage. What else are they hiding under the carpet?

In June 2017, Representative Penpa Tsering forwarded an urgent communication to Kashag reporting a notice served by the bank in DC on immediate closure of five accounts of DC Office of Tibet. The Representative recommended that the office funds be withdrawn immediately as there was risk of deposits being frozen. Accordingly, the funds were dispersed. It was later learnt that prior to making the recommendation, Representative Penpa Tsering had never approached the bank authorities and when he belatedly approached the Assistant General Manager of the bank, the bank agreed to keep the accounts active. However the damage was done. The Representative’s negligence and failure to conduct the simplest of due diligence caused unnecessary hassle and complications.

Glad that Kay Beswick write aboutt this sensitive topic clearly. We should notn condone corruption of any kind because it is akin to stealing from the people. But in this case, it is even worse, because what Lobsang Sangay and Penpa Tsering are doing is technically misusing donations from people who genuinely parted with their money for the Tibetan Cause. In another words, the Tibetan Cause is just a poor-me scam used by these duo (and I think others smaller ranking CTA officers) to squeeze monies from the wealthy westerners.

Lobsang Sangay actions spell doom for the CTA…

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Tibet Fund recorded 1.5 million USD as loan for legal purpose: President Sangay responds on ‘loan-gate’

[Monday, November 20, 2017 19:36]
By Tenzin Dharpo

DHARAMSHALA, Nov. 20: The Tibetan President currently on an official tour in Canada on Sunday responded to queries on the “loan” of 1.5 million USD dollars from Tibet Fund, saying the non-profit organization had to record the amount as loan due to legal and regulation-bound reasons but is not a loan.

President Sangay said that an agreement between Tibet Fund and Central Tibetan Administration recognize the amount to be a contribution to purchase the property that did not have to be paid back in the future but instead will be collateralized as payment for the lease for the office space by the Tibet Fund. Tibet Fund subleases office space at the Office of Tibet’s Washington DC office.

The issue became a crucial element in the ousting of the North America representative and former Speaker Penpa Tsering by Kashag (cabinet).

The Kashag among its 10 reasons, cited an incident of trust deficit when Penpa Tsering questioned President Sangay whether a sum of 1.5 million USD was a loan to Tibet-Fund. The Sangay led Kashag on Saturday released a clarification, which stated, “Sikyong clearly explained that it was not a loan, but an amount that Tibet Fund had contributed and did not expect to be paid back. Despite Sikyong’s clarification and without consulting and seeking guidance and approval from Kashag and DIIR, Representative Penpa Tsering reported to CTA auditors that a loan payment for OoT DC office was outstanding.”

The financial statement of Tibet Fund for the year 2015 available on the organization’s website, clearly recorded a same amount of 1.5 million USD under Fixed Asset as “Loan receivables” that year.

The auditor’s report also mentioned in the footnote that on, “March 31, 2014 the Fund entered into a $1,500,000 Loan Agreement with The Office of Tibet to purchase a building that will then be partially subleased by the Fund. The loan is partially collateralized by a lease agreement between the Fund and The Office of Tibet in an aggregate amount of $425,000. The loan matures on March 31, 2043 at which point the balloon payment of $1,500,000 will be due. The interest rate is 1% and the interest income for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $15,000. The amount outstanding as of December 31, 2014 is $1,500,000.”

The President told Tibetans in Toronto that repeated incidents of underperformance and questionable actions by the NA rep. Penpa Tsering led to his termination. “The Kashag could not trust Penpa Tsering in Washington DC office following multiple incidents that eroded the trust and expectations placed on him,” the President said. The Kashag stated that growing “trust and performance deficit” as well as “insubordination” as key reasons to remove the incumbent NA representative of the Washington CTA mission.

Former Speaker Penpa Tsering in response told a Tibetan media agency that he will respond to the allegations soon after November 30. Some Tibetans carried out peaceful protest at the venue of the public event with placards that read, “We are not protesting against our government, all we ask is the truth.”

The Washington CTA mission remains the most crucial position in the hierarchy of outposts of the Tibetan polity. Education minister Ngodup Tsering will take charge of the office beginning next month.

http://www.phayul.com/news/article.aspx?id=39817

Heart advice for the U-Tsang People

The Modus Operandi to silencing us:

“We are an exile community and not an independent country so don’t copy the West. Shame on you!”

——

MY HEART ADVICE TO MY DEAR U-TSANG PEOPLE PART II
NOVEMBER 22, 2017 (WILD JEPA)

This is Tibetan domestic politics, not Tibet-China politics. So, keep the debate in context.

Their modus operandi in silencing us is this:

(1) Your criticism will create division within our community along regional lines. But when Khampas do it, either people claim it as their fundamental rights, or they will just ignore it. Shugden activists (99% are Khampas) talked shit about the Dalai Lama and CTA on youtube for years, and nobody lifted even a finger. Why this double standard? Why is it wrong for a non-Khampa Tibetan— who has not sold his soul to the Chinese— to blow a whistle?

(2) This “division” will upset the Dalai Lama, and he will not live long. If something happens to him, then you are responsible. Don’t do it near the CTA and HH. You are a Shugden follower.

(3) Such criticism will make our enemy glad and our brethren sad. Why are we doing this to ourselves?

(4) We are an exile community and not an independent country so don’t copy the West. Shame on you!

(5) If you want to criticize, do so to the Chinese. When you do, they tell you to do the Middle Way, not the Rangzen way!

(6) Your freedom of speech hurts our unity. Stop comparing our society to others because we are refugees.

(7) Your freedom of thought is disturbing the minds of our people and the peace in our community.

(8) Your freedom of expression is a bad example to the Tibetan youth.

(9) Freedom of speech has limits. Why are you doing the work of Chinese–our enemy? You are one brainwashed idiot.

(10) You are hurting the Tibetan cause.

(11) You are anti-Dalai Lama, anti-CTA, anti-Tibetan, anti-Gaden Phodrang, un-Tibetan, un-Buddhist, CCP agent

(12) If you want to protest, then go to the Chinese embassy.

(13) One scare tactic they use quite successfully is “The ghosts of regionalism from the 60s up to 90s will revisit our small community and the Dalai Lama will be upset.

Bottom line is STF! Follow the Chota Supreme Leader! Follow him blindly!

Their objective is to create fear, guilt, and shame in you, so you get paralyzed even to react, and that’s when they gain total control over you with ease. Our job is not to behave slavishly. No response can be more fitting than this! Their deflection tactic for criticism will fail!

Anytime you criticize a Utsang leader, Khampas will tell you ” You are an honest upfront brave man!” But when you criticize a Khampa leader they will tell you,” I thought you were brave and honest, but you are not! You are rude! You are regional!

Dear U-Tsangs, I understand it is not easy for you to come out of your deep slumber. For centuries, we practiced pacifism after having been inspired by Buddhism. But the price we pay for pacifism and meekness is the erosion of our pride, courage, unity, and determination. It is psychologically harmful to our children. No more nyamchung crap!

Sing this new prayer with the same Tsemay younten tune, and you will get the message.

Tsemay younten gyatsoe pel nga shing

Nyamchung go la dho tar shak sha rey

Jigten dodhang dhinday yin na

Dhue nam yang khur thuppa mindhuk !

When my nine-year-old son Gyakhab Rangzen asked me one day out of the blue “Daddy, why are our U-Tsang people so meek? “

At first, I was taken aback at his observation. Regaining my composure, I told him “Son, we are not cowards. We had a central government, and so we abandoned tribalism for unity long ago. We are used to peace for long, and hence we forgot the art of war. And to protect our skin, we now do become selfish not realizing that it is harder to break a dozen arrows than one. Remember, we U-Tsangs once unified the whole of Tibet and conquered distant lands through war. We were warriors once. History is the witness. We can be warriors again”.

He hugged me with his chest puffed up with pride and confidence. I will never forget that day because I was the happiest daddy and he was the proudest son in the whole world, and we both are hardcore U-Tsangs.

Yes, in pacifism, we become rats. And when the rats get disoriented with fear they will attack the victim, not the perpetrator because it is safe and comfortable. We allow Khampas to use U-Tsangs to attack our own. Remember Yapchen Passang Tsewang attacked our hero Dawa Tsering with false allegations. Who can forget it?

Tenpa Yarphel and his ilk bullied him for fifteen years over the Yongling school despite losing the battle legally many times. They also brought up false murder allegations against Penpa Tsering to bring him down to ensure the victory of their root guru Lobsang Sangay. What U-Tsang attacked Khampas so mercilessly with such hate and jealousy raging in their eyes in the past six decades? None.

We respected them for their courage, straightforwardness, decisiveness, resoluteness and the help they render to their tribe. But what have we got back? Nothing but negative regionalism, intimidation, hatred, jealousy, bullying, exploitation, discrimination, insults, death threats, and assaults. Nothing but attacks after attacks!

Now we begin to witness our patience has both depth and limit. Always remember, when a Khampa hurls outrageous allegations on a U-Tsang, our leadership is silent. But when a U-Tsang fights back, the administration goes reciting the mantra,

“Om, Unity! Unity! Unity!”

Call me names or do what you can, I will not budge an inch so should you not. Let the sky fall; I don’t give a damn. If regionalism and disunity are suffering–let both, not one–suffer!

I will never ever abandon the death-bed advice that my father gave me long ago, “Even if you are reduced to a life of slums and misery, never sell your soul to the Red China who is responsible for the loss of our country and our dignity. Fight if you can as a Tibetan for nothing less than total independence. But if Khampa regionalism urinates on the head of U-Tsangs, then you should stand up first and fight as a hardcore U-Tsang! And lead others by example. When in international politics, play your Tibetan role: When in Tibetan domestic politics, play your U-Tsang role. ”

Vow not to shove shit in to the mouth of a U-Tsang who served you butter and honey!

Vow not to kiss the ass of a Khampa who urinated on your head!

If you stick to these two vows then you are a U-Tsang who will earn the respect and votes of all other U-Tsangs.

Don’t forget November 27, 2017 Monday 10 am sharp!

Blast the Kashag building with slogans !

P.S. If you know of corruption or injustice at high levels and if you have facts, evidence, photos, audio, videos, contact me–the Tibetan WikiLeaks at [email protected]

https://wildjepa.com/2017/11/22/my-heart-advice-to-my-dear-u-tsang-people-part-ii/

Get ready for more DRAMA —- we Tibetans are VERY FREE

😧 Whole Nepal say Buddha born in Nepal, but DL says this is nonsense. DL lied and this is very shameful.

💻 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxUI3_d6hQU

Tibetans must read.

Sikyong should just say that he lied about the US1.5 million to purchase the Washington DS office. Admit the TRUTH!

Tibetans Stage Demonstration Near CTA Dharamshala
November 27, 2017

This morning a group of Tibetans have gathered at the basket ball ground in the vicinity of Central Tibetan Administration compound in Dharamshala holding placards calling for the protection of integrity in Tibetan administration. The demonstration is being held in relation to the issue of ousting the North America representative Mr. Penpa Tsering earlier this month.

The demonstration as being circulated in the internet a video interview with one of the participants demands the CTA to assign an independent committee to make an investigation in the issue of Kashag’s decision to replacing the North America representative Mr. Penpa Tsering. They demonstrators are arguing that the decision was not fair from the side of Kashag which pointed out 10 reasons in replacing the representative.

Kashag’s (Cabinet Secretary) Additional Secretary Mr. Phuntsok Tsering has been handed a memorandum from the demonstrators which the secretary informed that will be discussed during the bi-weekly cabinet meetings at the Central Tibetan Administration scheduled on Tuesdays and Fridays.

According to the interview, there are approximately around 100 people gathered for the demonstration who have come from different places like Nepal, Delhi, Bylakuppe, Dehradun, Dharamshala, etc.

The Kashag on November 7 appointed the Education Kalon Ngodup Tsering as the new Representative of North America based in Washington DC. The Kashag cited the removal of incumbent representative Mr. Penpa Tsering as per Chapter 1 Article 1(3) of the Tibetan Charter and Article 19(1) of the Tibetan Public Service Commission rules and regulations. It further issued a 10 point clarification for the removal of the representative on November 11.

http://www.tibetanjournal.com/index.php/2017/11/27/tibetans-stage-demonstration-near-cta-dharamshala/

Dharamsala yesterday, the historic protest against Central Tibetan Administration in Dharamshala, India on 27 November 2017.

Historic protest against CTA targets Penpa Tsering dismissal

By Lobsang Wangyal
McLEOD GANJ, India, 27 November 2017

For the first time in nearly 60 years, Tibetans in exile held a protest against the Cabinet (Kashag) of the Central Tibetan Administration. They were challenging its controversial decision to sack the Representative of the Dalai Lama to North America in Washington DC.

Kashag had announced on 7 November that Representative Penpa Tsering had been fired from his position. He has been ordered to leave office on 30 November.

About 100 people gathered at the basketball ground on the premises of the CTA demonstrating against the Kashag’s action. The protestors also expressed dissatisfaction with the 10-point response that had been issued by the Cabinet.

Last week a few dozen Tibetans staged a protest in New York City over the same issue. A few also protested in Toronto, Canada, during Lobsang Sangay’s visit to the country.

The majority of the demonstrators in Dharamshala are from McLeod Ganj. A few had travelled from other places. While carrying out their peaceful silent protest, an announcer said that if any outsiders come to provoke them, they would not use any violence against them.

Banners hanging on the walls read: Movement for promotion of CTA’s integrity; No misuse of power; Do not destroy His Holiness’ legacy; No disregard to public aspirations; and, We need an independent commission to resolve the matter immediately.

Dolma Bam, one of the staunch supporters of Lobsang Sangay in the 2011 election, was among the protestors today. He said, “We are not protesting against the CTA. We are seeing an injustice. There is not a good reason to sack Penpa Tsering. I feel that Lobsang Sangay is destroying the CTA. We are here to protect the CTA from destruction.”

“We are no more able to trust and rely on Lobsang Sangay. There is lack of honesty and justice, and the reasons given by Kashag are unacceptable,” he said.

Sherab Dolma, 81, who was the oldest among the protestors, said, “I would like the Kashag to be truthful. Do not dismiss those who are working hard.”

“I don’t know if the Kashag will pay heed to us, but it will be a shame for them. It is for the first time that the public is protesting against it.”

Organic farmer Rinzin Dorje travelled the longest distance to participate in the demonstration, from Bylakuppe in South India. Dorje said, “I was shocked to hear about the sacking of Representative Penpa Tsering. It came all of a sudden. The Kashag’s decision doesn’t do any good for the Tibetan cause.”

“None of the 10-point reasons given by Kashag calls for expulsion of a Representative from his duty. We now call for the formation of an independent committee to give a recommendation after impartial investigation of information from both the sides.”

Dorje added that if the matter doesn’t get a fair judgment, they will continue with their agitation.

Salam (who uses only one name), 36, had travelled from Goa to join the protest. “I am neither supporting Lobsang Sangay, nor Penpa Tsering. I am here to support the truth. Penpa Tsering has rejected Kashag’s 10-point charges. That has raised the question.”

“We do not need explanation, we need the reason why Penpa Tsering was expelled. We have the right to know. We demand an independent committee to investigate the matter.”

Tsultrim Dorje, 53, had come from Kathmandu, Nepal. He said he voted for Lobsang Sangay in the 2011 election. “I have heard lies over the years from Lobsang Sangay as the leader. He has been deceiving the people.”

He said that Kashag’s ten reasons created more doubts than clarity. “Unless justice is done, we will not stop our movement.”

One of the protestors left his winter sweater business and travelled to Dharamshala to join the demonstration. Tsering Wangchuk, 36, is from Dekiling, but does his winter sweater business in Rajasthan. He said that Penpa Tsering has not made any comments so far out of respect for the rules. “I have full confidence that Penpa Tsering will come out clean from this situation.”

A protestor from Sikkim said that she is a ‘Denjongpa’, but her husband who passed away a few years ago, was a Tibetan. She said, “I am here to support truth and justice. Kashag’s reasons are not satisfactory. The Dalai Lama is working so hard for Tibet, and what the Kashag has done makes me worry about what China will think. Tibetans should work in unity to achieve their goals.”

Five representatives of the protestors approached the Cabinet Secretariat to present a memorandum. The Additional Secretary of the Secretariat Phuntsok Tsering received the memorandum from them at the entrance of the Secretariat, and said that he will hand over the memorandum to the Cabinet tomorrow when the President of CTA and the ministers meet for their weekly meeting.

Answering questions from the the media, he said, “People have the right to demonstrate in a democratic society. Kashag will look into their demands and will make a decision.”

Penpa Tsering has said that he will respond to the Kashag’s 10-point charges against him after he leaves his office on 30 November.

https://www.tibetsun.com/news/2017/11/27/historic-protest-against-cta-targets-penpa-tsering-dismissal

The Dalai Lama said that he cannot change his religion to enter into the Hindu temple. He wants to visit the Hindu temple, but he cannot change his religion. Only those of Hindu faith can enter this temple. He tried to enter by saying indirectly make an exception. But the Hindu priest said no. Even for the Dalai Lama, a big celebrity, the rules cannot be changed. It would have been nice if the priest did change the rules because the temple is to be visited by all and blessings are for everyone.

Ngodup Tsering

Dalai: Why Puri temple doors shut for non-Hindus?
Minati Singha| TNN | Updated: Nov 22, 2017, 02:35 IST
BHUBANESWAR: Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, on Tuesday questioned the practice of not allowing non-Hindus inside the Puri Jagannath Temple premises while criticising the Christian missionaries for trying to convert people of other faiths.
“During my last visit to Odisha in 2010, I wished to go to the Jagannath Temple in Puri. I have a practice of visiting holy places wherever I go. I go to local places of worship like churches, gurdwaras, Hindu temples, Buddhist temples and mosques. I have made pilgrimages to Jerusalem (the holy city of the Jewish), the Syrian Christian Church and the Muslim sacred rock,” the Dalai Lama told TOI in an interview on Tuesday. He was responding to a question on the state’s unique Jagannath culture.
The Dalai Lama, who is here on a two-day visit, said he cannot change his religion to enter the Jagannath Temple. “When I wanted to enter the Jagannath Temple in Puri, they said only Hindus are allowed inside the temple. So, in order to make a pilgrimage to the Jagannath Temple, I have to become a Hindu, which is very difficult,” said the Nobel laureate.
The Dalai Lama also questioned conversions by Christian missionaries. “I never say Buddhism is the best religion. I never try to promote it in non-Buddhist countries and in Christian countries like Europe and America. I admire Christian brothers and sisters but don’t like it when they try to convert people. Being secular, like India, is a very practical and wonderful approach,” he said.
Reacting to the Dalai Lama’s comment, Jagannath Temple priests said not allowing non-Hindus inside t is an age-old tradition. “Non-Hindus have not been allowed into the temple for centuries and the rule cannot be changed,” said Ramkrushna Das Mohapatra, president of the Daita Pati Nijog (an association of priests).
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhubaneswar/dalai-why-puri-temple-doors-shut-for-non-hindus/articleshow/61746509.cms

Picture caption:

A Gelug monastery in Sarnath bans Shugden practitioners from their monastery and teachings

What the Dalai Lama said:

“When I wanted to enter the Jagannath Temple in Puri, they said only Hindus are allowed inside the temple. So, in order to make a pilgrimage to the Jagannath Temple, I have to become a Hindu, which is very difficult,” said the Dalai Lama ~ ya we knew that long ago”

Some interesting video la I was there that day . About 100 people are protest to Sikyong Losang Sengge for the democracy reason . Kashag are make the fool of Kungo Penpa Tsering la n are not give the good reason for fire him http://video.dorjeshugden.com/comment-videos/comment-1511917462.mp4

Tibetan ppl are not happy Sikyong zuma . He is corrupt and make the problem coming to Penpa Tsering. Our dhonchoe la asking question to Sikyong abt loan so now Sikyong la making him to quiet http://video.dorjeshugden.com/comment-videos/comment-1511917578.mp4

Tibetan ppl are not happy Sikyong zuma . He is corrupt and make the problem coming to Penpa Tsering. Our dhonchoe la asking question to Sikyong abt loan so now Sikyong la making him to quiet http://video.dorjeshugden.com/comment-videos/comment-1511917709.mp4

Momo la cry but Kungo Ngodup la act like gunda n ignore You dont forget who put you to power ok

http://video.dorjeshugden.com/comment-videos/comment-1511917971.mp4

Tibetans protested against Lobsang Sangay outside the Office of Tibet but what response did they get from the Central Tibetan Administration? Lobsang Sangay and his administration not only failed to give satisfactory reasons why Penpa Tsering was removed from his position, he is now creating more dismay among Tibetan communities worldwide.

Group of Tibetans protest outside Office of Tibet, DC during handover
Phayul [Wednesday, November 29, 2017 09:27]
By Tenzin Monlam
DHARAMSHALA, November 29: Protest against Kashag’s decision to oust the North America envoy Penpa Tsering has reached Washington DC, the seat of Office of Tibet in the US, as a group of Tibetans stood with banners outside the office during the handover proceedings yesterday.
Protesters reportedly from Boston, Connecticut, New York and Washington DC say their protest was not against the Tibetan government in exile or against Gaden Phodrang, the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
“This protest is not against the Central Tibetan Administration or His Holiness the Dalai Lama, it is against Lobsang Sangay,” said a Tibetan woman.
During the meeting Ngodup Tsering said, “I am not here as a representative of Kashag. I am here only as a staff of the Kashag to carryout the handover of the office. As for clarification on the matter, Kashag has made it public.”
He promised that he would take their application on the matter to the Kashag. He, however, denied their request of addressing the group outside and said that he would address only after taking charge of the office.
In an unfortunate turn of event, a protestor named Ngawang Tsering, according to the protesters, suffered a heart attack and has been hospitalized.
The protest in DC follows another in Gangchen Kyishong, the seat of Central Tibetan Administration, where around 90 men and women carried out a peaceful and silent protest calling for an independent committee to probe the ousting of Washington envoy.
The Kashag initially on November 9 said that removal of Penpa Tsering was solely due to his failure to assume his duties appropriately and in the manner befitting of the office as seen by the Kashag.
And on November 18, Kashag released a 10-point statement for the removal of Penpa Tsering after repeated probe by the media and demands for clarification by the public.
While accepting the decision taken by the Kashag, the outgoing representative Penpa Tsering has stated that he does not agree with the charges against him and that he would respond only after completing his tenure on November 30.
http://www.phayul.com/news/article.aspx?id=39853

Prominent Buddhists in North America welcome the suspension of the Dalai Lama’s Personal Emissary of Peace, Tenzin Dhonden. Although it is not official that Tenzin Dhonden has been permanently replaced as he has hired a New York legal firm to reclaim his position on the trust, a temporary replacement has been appointed as the organisation’s “acting secretary”. It is unfortunate that His Holiness the Dalai Lama is surrounded by officials who seemed to be self-serving. This incident, and the sudden removal of Penpa Tsering are series of scandals that continue to expose more corruption and abuses within the top Tibetan leadership circle. See the article below:

Controversial monk and Dalai Lama aide replaced amid corruption accusations
Rory Carroll in Los Angeles
Wednesday 29 November 2017 12.19 GMT
Prominent Buddhists in North America are welcoming the apparent downfall of the Dalai Lama’s self-styled “personal emissary of peace”, a Tibetan monk who befriended celebrities and billionaires but has been accused of bullying, celebrity worship and corruption.
The Dalai Lama Trust has replaced Tenzin Dhonden as its executive secretary with a temporary appointment following claims, which the trust has said they are investigating, that Dhonden abused his position as a gatekeeper to the Buddhist leader.
It is not known what the outcome of the trust’s investigation is or whether they have reached any conclusions. Dhonden has vigorously denied the corruption accusation, which was made by a Seattle-based philanthropist. He has not publicly responded to the other allegations.
If permanent, his replacement by the trust would be a severe blow to Dhonden, who from his base in La Jolla, near San Diego, California, built a network of wealthy supporters, including the eBay founder Pierre Omidyar and the Seagram heiress Sara Bronfman.
The Guardian revealed last month that the 53-year-old had been suspended pending an investigation into allegations from a Seattle-based technology entrepreneur that Dhonden extracted unjustified payments from him between 2005 and 2008, in return for setting up an event with the Dalai Lama. The Dalai Lama’s personal secretary said the monk had been suspended pending a “conclusion” to the allegations.
Dhonden strongly disputed the allegations and hired a venerable New York legal firm, Patterson Belknap, to defend his reputation and reclaim his position on the trust.
But last week Dhonden’s name disappeared from the trust’s website and a trustee, Tashi Namgyal Khamshitsang, took his place as the organisation’s “acting secretary”.
It is not known in what circumstances he has left his position as secretary of the trust. It has made no public comment about the new appointment or the status of its investigation into Dhonden. The trust and the Dalai Lama’s office did not respond to requests for information for this article. Emails to Dhonden’s attorneys asking about his fate and future plans also went unanswered.
Prominent Buddhists in North America with connections in Dharamsala, the hill town in India which hosts the Dalai Lama and other exiled Tibetans, have welcomed the trust’s appointment of a new secretary, a decision said to have been taken at a board of trustees meeting on 10 November.
The accusations against Dhonden shone a light on his role as a bridge between Dharamsala and Dalai Lama supporters in Hollywood, Silicon Valley and elsewhere.
“I would like to join many others in expressing my deep gratitude to you all for stepping in to protect the precious reputation and legacy of His Holiness through effecting the recent transition of the leadership of the Dalai Lama Trust,” Thupten Jinpa, the Dalai Lama’s principal English translator, said in a letter to trustees seen by the Guardian.
Jinpa, a former monk who has translated and edited about a dozen books by the Dalai Lama, wrote that it had been “painful” to see the spiritual leader’s name and legacy snagged by “unnecessary distractions … and discordant messages” which he said reflected “celebrity orientation”.
Jinpa’s letter did not name Dhonden but said that under his stewardship the trust had alienated allies with “embarrassing” and “bullying” behaviour. “Most sadly, the Trust has unfortunately acquired a reputation of being authoritarian, confrontational, petty, and uncaring, characteristics so far removed from His Holiness’ personal ethics.”
His questionable values, arrogant disposition and objectionable behavior have generated confusion and anxiety.
In a phone interview Jinpa said the letter had been intended just for trustees but confirmed its contents. The Dalai Lama, who is the trust’s chairman, took a “very firm” stand once alerted to the allegations, he said. “I think his highness was clearly disturbed by the allegations.”
The criticism is a marked contrast to praise for the monk’s “equanimity” and “pure goodness” in a 2015 San Diego Union Tribune profile. The article said he was a diligent emissary for the Dalai Lama.
Other prominent Buddhist figures, however, share Jinpa’s satisfaction at the apparent fall of a monk who grew up in Dharamsala and moved to the US in 1991, where he helped organise celebrity-studded public events and private audiences for wealthy donors during the Dalai Lama’s visits to the US.
“His questionable values, arrogant disposition and objectionable behavior have generated confusion, anxiety and extensive unhappiness for many years, impeding the work of His Holiness in North America and jeopardizing his reputation,” Marty Krasney, director of the San Francisco-based Dalai Lama Fellows, wrote in a letter to the Dalai Lama’s private office, and copied to trust board members, which the Guardian has seen.
Krasney thanked the board for taking action to “protect” the Dalai Lama and to keep his vision and message “untarnished”.
Richard Grace, a Napa vineyard owner who has been friends with the Dalai Lama for more than 20 years, also wrote to the Dalai Lama’s office to welcome the decision.
Grace initiated the push against Dhonden after attending an 80th birthday celebration for the Dalai Lama in 2015 in Anaheim, near Los Angeles, which featured a golden cake, dancers in tight bodysuits and celebrities previously unassociated with Buddhism – “insulting” elements he blamed on the monk.
Krasney and Grace persuaded Daniel Kranzler, a Seattle-based entrepreneur, to meet the Dalai Lama face to face in June and lay out allegations that Dhonden had demanded payments in return for ensuring the spiritual leader appear at a large event which Kranzler hosted in Washington state in 2008.
Dhonden has not responded to requests for comment but vehemently rejected wrongdoing via his attorneys. They said last month that Kranzler’s allegations related to events that “occurred nearly a decade ago, are largely inaccurate and otherwise relate to conduct that is not unlawful, unethical, or even inappropriate”. They added that the allegations were “designed to falsely and unfairly tarnish” Dhonden’s reputation and that any payments he received were for legitimate work.
In a phone interview last week Grace, a former marine, claimed Dhonden loyalists in Dharamsala had insulated the Dalai Lama from complaints and that action was overdue.
A California university administrator who liaised with Dhonden over Dalai Lama events, and requested anonymity, said colleagues gave the monk a coarse nickname for his perceived obsession about inviting celebrities regardless of whether they had any interest in Buddhism or Tibet.
Some critics also blamed Dhonden for organising an event in Albany in 2009 hosted by Nxivm, a controversial self-help organisation that has been compared to a cult, a description adherents reject. The event was initially cancelled after an outcry but then went ahead, giving a misleading impression that the Dalai Lama endorsed Nxivm, according to Dhonden’s detractors.
Leading Nxivm adherents include Sara Bronfman, a wealthy heiress with a longstanding interest in Buddhism whom Dhonden has befriended, according to several sources.
The monk is also close to Pierre Omidyar, the eBay founder, and his wife Pam, travelling in their private jet, visiting their estate in Hawaii and facilitating meetings with the Dalai Lama, according to people who have attended some of the meetings. The couple has a longstanding interest in Buddhism.
Bronfman and the Omidyars did not respond to requests for comment.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/29/tenzin-dhonden-dalai-lama-corruption-celebrity-investigation?CMP=share_btn_fb

Kashag’s allegations “false, incomplete and manipulative,” says former NA envoy P. Tsering
[Wednesday, December 06, 2017 12:59]
By Tenzin Dharpo
DHARAMSHALA, Dec. 5: The former North America representative Penpa Tsering refuted all the allegations against him saying they are “false, incomplete and manipulative,” at a press conference here today. He said that while the executive body of the Central Tibetan Administration led by Dr. Lobsang Sangay has the authority to terminate him, he rejects the allegations which he said was an “attempt to malign his image.”
The row over the termination of Penpa Tsering’s tenure in Washington office began on Nov. 7 when the Kashag made a public announcement that former education minister Ngodup Tsering will be the new NA envoy. Later the Kashag made public a 10-point statement which cited growing “performance and trust deficit” as well as “insubordination” by Penpa Tsering.
The former Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in exile today said that he couldn’t respond sooner to the allegations as he was bound by regulations not to speak out while being a staff of the CTA. He shared a 97-page document that included official correspondences, some of which appeared confidential.
In response to the Kashag’s allegation of ‘trust deficit’, he said that it was the Sangay led Kashag which portrayed reluctance in trusting him. Tsering said two additional Directors for the TCDF (Tibetan Community Development Fund), including a close aide of the President, were added just two months into his tenure and that he was kept in the dark on matters related to US government funding under the PRM and USAID initiatives despite reaching out to President Sangay on the matters. He also said that his office was not notified on a few occasions when the President or a member of the cabinet visited the North America on official schedule.
Penpa Tsering said that he categorically refutes ‘lack of performance’ allegation as he had left no stones unturned as far as output of his office is concerned. Responding to the charges of failure to set up key meetings with officials of the US government, he said that his office had approached concerned offices through official mails but that the meetings could not materialize due to scheduling conflicts. He added that closure of the bank accounts was a political move that no one could have avoided, he said while addressing the allegation over the warning by a prominent bank to close several accounts under the OoT. He backed his claims with copies of the correspondence to the media. “Was any of my predecessors charged for not being able to set up meetings for the President?” Tsering questioned.
The former NA envoy also said he does not accept the “insubordination” allegations against him. Addressing the incidents cited by the Kashag, he said Chinese liaison officer Kunga Tashi’s appointment was not finalized and he told the public that such appointment was subject to Kashag’s.
On the loan debacle concerning the Tibet Fund and OoT, the former Speaker said the President first raised the issue in the ten point statement and that any problems arising out of it for the CTA or chaos amongst the public will be the responsibility of the Kashag.
He shared a copy of the “Promissory note,” an internal agreement between the OoT and Tibet Fund. He said that the non profit organization continued to show the amount of 1.5 million USD as loan despite the President’s insistence that “it was not a loan” and that such back door agreements with an organization based in a foreign land is a breach of the Tibetan Charter’s article 6 where compliance to the laws of the host nation is stressed clearly. Penpa Tsering said it was his duty to question such discrepancies and does not consider such acts as insubordination.
Through the three hours fifty-minute press conference, the former NA envoy reiterated that he had not breached any rules and regulations of the exile Tibetan administration and called on the Kashag to speak out on any specific breaches.
http://www.phayul.com/news/article.aspx?id=39878&article=Kashag%E2%80%99s+allegations+%E2%80%9Cfalse%2c+incomplete+and+manipulative%2c%E2%80%9D+says+former+NA+envoy+P.+Tsering

The Dalai Lama Wants to Return Home
BY P. STOBDAN ON 04/12/2017
Is India bracing for the potential fallout?
The impact of the 19th Communist Party of China congress and affirmation of President Xi Jinping as China’s ‘most powerful’ leader in decades seems already to be having a bearing on India – especially on the ‘Tibet Issue’ that deeply intersects with the boundary problem. Is India bracing for the potential fallout?
There may be more to the Dalai Lama’s desire to return home than meets the eye. The Tibetan leader’s November 23 statement – “The past is past, Tibetans want to stay with China” – carries a serious political overtone, coming as it does immediately after the 19th party congress and the Doklam standoff between India and China.
The Dalai Lama’s statement that he is “not seeking independence for Tibet and wishing to stay with China” is not new; however, his declaration that “he would return to Tibet at once, if China agrees” has sparked fresh speculation of a possible rapprochement with Beijing.
The sign of rapid thawing strangely comes on the heels of President Donald Trump’s recent visit to Beijing. Most likely, Trump wouldn’t have made Tibet a pressure point in his dealings with Beijing; rather he would have dumped the Dalai Lama (whom the US fostered for over half a century) on the altar of a better trade deal and for securing China’s commitment to exert more pressure on North Korea. During the trip US officials made to Dharamshala prior to Trump’s visit, this prospect would probably have been discussed.
The inevitability of this change was clear when the US had started faltering on Tibet even earlier, when Barack Obama had to welcome the Dalai Lama through the back door of the White House, signalling Washington’s inability to withstand Beijing’s pressure.
Trump was not even inclined to embrace the issue, as he refused to meet the Tibetan leader and instead proposed zero aid in 2018 to the Tibetans, reversing the decades-old American policy. The State Department has also not appointed a special coordinator for Tibet.
Surely it couldn’t have been a coincidence that a week after Trump’s China visit, the Dalai Lama abruptly selected two personal emissaries (for an indefinite period) to represent him in all ‘global engagements’. He has cited increasing physical fatigue, but the decision to appoint two “trusted friends” – former ‘prime minister-in-exile‘ Samdong Rinpoche and current president of the ‘government in exile’, Lobsang Sangay – was meant to send a calibrated signal to China.
Anyway, the Dalai Lama has been working on a new plan – 5/50 vision – that envisaged a five-year strategy for returning to dialogue with China, but preparing for a 50-year struggle if needed – along the “hope for the best and prepare for the worst” proverb. The 5/50 strategy reaffirmed his middle way approach (Umaylam) as a realistic political means of realising the dual aim of his early return to Tibet and fulfilling the aspirations of the Tibetan people.
Appointing personal emissaries satisfies China. Beijing has been emphatically asking the Dalai Lama to stop travelling to Western capitals, if talks are to be resumed. At the 19th party congress, the Tibet Work Forum chief told reporters that international figures have no excuse for meeting with the Dalai Lama. Recently, the Dalai Lama even had to abort his planned visit to Botswana, citing physical “exhaustion”.
Within this rapidly-unfolding scenario, the Dalai Lama appears to have sent Samdong on a discreet visit to Kunming (China). Samdong’s visit, starting from mid November, must have been facilitated by no less than You Quan – newly-appointed head of the United Front Work Department that overseas Tibetan affairs. You Quan, who formerly served as party secretary of Fujian, is a close associate of President Xi. He had earlier successfully dealt with Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan’s business communities.
Clearly, Samdong’s visit forms part of the first five-year plan to engage with China, while Lobsang Sangay’s 17-day tour to Europe and Canada is meant to sustain the struggle for the next 50 years, if the first plan fails.
Will the talks succeed now? In the past, Chinese leaders stymied the Dalai Lama’s desire to return to Tibet. But there is a distinct possibility that it may bear fruit this time.
First, Xi, widely known to have a soft spot for Tibet, hitherto kept his own approach close to his chest, fearing resistance from hardliners. Unlike others, he held the view that the prospects for solving the Tibet problem would peter out once the Dalai Lama is no more. Xi now finds himself in a perfect position to resolve the issue as no other Chinese leader could do in the past, for he also stands to gain personally both in political and moral terms, to become the most credible leader in China’s history.
Second, the Dalai Lama too long hoped for Xi to change tack, as he hailed him as “realist” and “open-minded” in contrast to his predecessors. In fact, the Tibetan leader has admitted to having received positive signals from top Chinese officials, especially from the moderate elements as streams of Han Chinese flocked to meet him during Xi’s first term. In May this year, the party was shocked to find their own party members clandestinely funding the Dalai Lama.
But, most critically, Tibetans living inside Tibet may have pressured the Dalai Lama to seize the opportunity and resolve differences during Xi’s second term, before the window for a deal closes a few years from now.
With time running out fast, the Dalai Lama can be anything but hopeful. He has been steadily losing international support in the face of China’s rise as a world power. No longer does any country dare to receive the Dalai Lama officially.
Apart from his own ageing, the Tibetan leader faces the challenge of keeping his flock together. For example, the delay in reaching a solution causes anxiety, uncertainty and division among his people. Even inside Tibet, rising frustration and hopelessness have been highlighted by people resorting to self-immolation. The number stands at 149 so far.
And so, in what must be an embarrassing climb-down for the exiled Tibetan leaders, all they can do now is settle for the cause of “development”, besides hoping that the Chinese will not resort to repression of the Tibetan people.
Therefore, in a way, we are likely witness the curtains finally being drawn on Tibet’s quest for an independent state. Tim Johnson knew this when he aptly titled his book Tragedy in Crimson: How the Dalai Lama Conquered the World but Lost the Battle with China.
And finally, for India, the question is whether New Delhi has any role to play in this rapidly-evolving scene, and if so under what political parameters. There is no sign of anyone having even considered the impact of this. But to be cautious, any Sino-Tibetan deal would seriously risk undercutting India’s position on the boundary dispute with China.
Seemingly fretful about impending developments, the Dalai Lama now finds himself walking a political tightrope by espousing reconciliation between India and China, “living peacefully by putting the differences aside”. He maintained a hands-off position and tried not to get drawn even into the Doklam standoff – instead calling for a peaceful solution. One hopes he is successful this time.
P. Stobdan, a former Indian ambassador, specialises in Chinese, Tibetan, Mongolian and Uighur affairs.
https://thewire.in/201726/dalai-lama-india-china-tibet/

Tibet Fund confirms 1.5 million USD loan to grant agreement
[Thursday, December 07, 2017 18:23]
By Tenzin Dharpo
DHARAMSHALA, Dec. 7: Non-Profit organization Tibet Fund in a statement on Wednesday said that the 1.5 million USD provided by the organization for the purchase of the Office of Tibet property is a “loan” which however was “expected and hoped” to be forgiven in the future. “We are issuing the statement to clarify Tibet Fund’s position on the loan issue,” the statement read.
Tibet fund said they “entered into a $1,500,000 loan agreement with the Office of Tibet on March 31, 2014,” and that, “the loan was scheduled to be repaid in thirty years.” The organisation also mentioned that the agreement was “consistent with customary legal practice in New York.”
Tibet fund cited an official correspondence from the organization’s Chairman to the CTA (Central Tibetan Administration) dated July 6, 2017 stating, “At the time the loan was made, both the Board of Tibet Fund and the CTA hoped and expected that at some point the loan would be forgiven and the full amount would then be deemed outright grant from Tibet Fund to the CTA, although the specific timing of this grant was never discussed or agreed. It was certainly our hope that after some number of years and experience working together, the board would feel that the time right to confer the loan to a grant.”
However, the non-profit organization wrote that the conversion of the loan into an “outright grant” is condition upon the CTA honoring the terms and condition of the loan and where the relationship between CTA and Tibet is “one of mutual respect and support”.
On Dec. 5, former North America envoy Penpa Tsering said that the agreement between the two parties concerning the 1.5 million USD, a part sum used to purchase a 500 square feet office space for the OoT in Washington was not as per laws of the host nation. Penpa Tsering said that the act was in violation of the the article 6 of the Tibetan charter where compliance to the laws of the host nation is stressed. A copy of the “promissory note” between Tibet Fund and CTA was shared by Tsering to the media yesterday.
The acting-President Yuthok Karma Gelek today told Tibetan media that the Kashag maintains that the amount of 1.5 million USD is not a loan.
Tibet Fund is an organization that is reliant heavily on US government funding and is essentially a social service outfit based out of New York, US, that has been involved in uplifting various spheres of the exile Tibetan community in the Indian sub-continent and in the west.
http://www.phayul.com/news/article.aspx?id=39888&article=Tibet+Fund+confirms+1.5+million+USD+loan+to+grant+agreement

After Trump in China, Will Any Country Officially Receive the Dalai Lama?
December 6, 2017 Jigme Wangchuk
The United States has always been an outspoken ally of the Tibet cause; at least it seemed to be until it showed a sign of corrosion in the last 10 years. China’s economic boom and its far-reaching impact in international affairs have risen astoundingly amidst growing call for human rights intervention in Tibet. The support for Tibet is dwindling as has been made apparent by His Holiness’s remark.
The Dalai Lama recently announced that he would indefinitely be absent from all international events and declared Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche and Prime Minister Dr. Lobsang Sangay as his two emissaries. The undertone of this decision seems to make it clear that the Dalai Lama has reached an understanding with Beijing, one that would fall in line with his vision of autonomy for Tibet.
An article by The Wire has drawn conclusions on how the Dalai Lama has panned out his policy for the Tibet cause in the future. News article pertaining to power politics and fading call for the Tibet cause have sprung up after Donald Trump’s visit to China – not without a reason. Trump has made it clear that he will not invite His Holiness to the United States like most of his predecessors. He also suggested zero dollars in aid to the Tibet cause.
China’s supposed involvement in the ousting of Zimbabwean president Mugabe highlights its political influence around the world. And with United States and the rejection by Botswana, it seems unlikely that no country will officially receive the Dalai Lama without offending China and paying a possible price for it. It would be erroneous to speculate that the Dalai Lama has surrendered his influence and nullified the Tibetan freedom struggle. With more and more countries reclining on China and lucrative trade relations for its people, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the Dalai Lama wants development for Tibetans in Tibet too.
But as far as the Dalai Lama’s travel is concerned, he will be limiting his presence to India where the Tibet cause will be fostered until that moment when India will embrace the exhaustive slogan “Hindi-China Bhai Bhai.”
http://www.tibetanjournal.com/index.php/2017/12/06/trump-china-will-country-officially-receive-dalai-lama/

Tibet wants to stay with China, says Dalai Lama
TNN | Updated: Nov 24, 2017, 15:42 IST
KOLKATA: Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama said on Thursday that Tibet did not seek independence from China but greater development.
Speaking at an interactive session hosted by the Indian Chamber of Commerce here, he said, “We are not seeking independence… We want to stay with China. We want more development.”
He added, “Tibet has a different culture and a different script… The Chinese people love their own country. We love our own country.”
He said, “From Yangtze to Sindhu rivers, major rivers … come from Tibet. Billions of lives are involved. Taking care of the Tibetan plateau is not only good for Tibet but for billions of people.”
He also lauded India’s “spirit of religious tolerance”, adding that there were “problems sometimes because of politicians trying to manipulate that”.
He took a dig at the average Indian’s laziness as well — describing them as “lazier than the Chinese”.
“I think Indian people are lazy but that may be due to the climate. But India is more stable and can play a role in the world stage,” he added. “India has a tradition of living together. (It is) a living example of different traditions being carried together,” the Buddhist monk said, adding: “I can proudly state the same about Tibetan culture.”
India should combine modern education with basic human values rooted in its traditional teachings, he said. “This could pave the way for peace in the 21st century+ after the violence that has prevailed in the last 100 years,” said the monk. “Religion, too, has become a lip service and failed to bridge the divide between humans,” he added, blaming politicians for often using it in a wrong way.
“India is rich in traditional teachings. These, rather than just religion, can help bring people together. If modern India can combine newage education with lessons on inner values in a secular way, then the country can head in the right direction. Modern education is a bit too materialistic,” he said.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/tibet-wants-to-stay-with-china-says-dalai-lama/articleshow/61775261.cms

CTA would like to downplay Samdhong Rinpoche’s private visit to China. The fact is, in order for him to go, he needs permission of India government, China government and Dalai Lama. For someone as high profile as him and who has criticised China for decades to be even allowed to go to China shows you that he is not going there for excursion, holidays or just to meet relatives. It will definitely be something official. Since he is going as the envoy of the Dalai Lama, it is definitely to negotiate with the China government regarding Tibet’s autonomy and Dalai Lama’a returning back, it could not be anything else. Therefore it is important for CTA and all Tibetans and their supporters to stop criticising China so that the negotiation goes through smoothly, and there will be a positive resolution for Tibet and a chance for the Dalai Lama to visit China and Tibet. The irony is, after Samdhong Rinpoche visited china, he is not accused to be colluding with China government for Tibet, HE HIMSELF is going to China. So there is no point in accusing Dorje Shugden people of befriending China, because the Tibetans exiled leaders are going to China themselves now.

‘Former Tibetan government head visited China recently’
Posted at: Dec 15, 2017, 2:07 AM; last updated: Dec 15, 2017, 1:58 PM (IST)
Ajay Banerjee
Tribune News Service
New Delhi, December 14
The Sikyong (head) of the elected Central Tibetan Administration, Dr Lobsang Sangay, in New Delhi confirmed that his predecessor Prof Samdhang Rimpoche did visit China recently. He, however, warned, “Don’t read too much into it. At most it’s a private visit and it’s too early to say anything.”
He was answering a question by former Foreign Secretary Kanwal Sibal on the sidelines of the Third ML Sondhi Memorial Lecture. Sangay delivered the lecture on ‘Tibet holds the key to Beijing’.
Sondhi was an IFS officer who quit and won a Lok Sabha election in 1967 from Delhi on a Jana Sangh ticket.
Sangay said India should make Tibet the lynchpin in changing Beijing, saying Tibet must be declared the “core issue”.
“Either you transform China into a liberal democracy or it transforms you,” he said. Citing Norway and Denmark as examples of the transformation, he said the two nations had abandoned the cause of Tibetans to mend ties with China.
Sangay, who spoke at the United Nations two days ago, warned India, saying: “China is already in Nepal. They have come to Doklam.” He repeated Mao’s words on Tibet being the “palm of China” and Ladakh, Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan and North East Frontier Agency (NEFA, modern Indian province of Arunachal Pradesh) its five fingers. Mao, former Chairman of the Communist Party of China, had asserted it is China’s responsibility to “liberate” them all.
On being asked if he agreed with the recent book, ‘China’s India War — Collision Course on the Roof of the World’, by Bertil Lintner, which said China had prepared for war in 1959, Sangay said: “China prepared for the 1962 India-China war in 1954 when it agreed to only a five-year renewal of the India-Tibet trade pact. In 1959, Tibet was attacked.”
Sangay said: “China is worried as it now has the largest Buddhist community of 300 million — more than the 82 million strong Communist Party.”
BJP national general secretary Ram Madhav, who was the chief guest at the memorial lecture, said: “Maintaining good relations with China is the government’s priority. At present, negotiations are on between Tibet and China. Whenever required, India and its people will stand by them (Tibetans).” On the India-China standoff, he said: “Doklam is not over yet.”
http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/dalai-lama-headed-to-china-on-pvt-visit/513541.html