02/13/2026
Tashi Delek,
With humility and gratitude, I thank my family, volunteers, supporters, and every Tibetan who participated in this election. Your faith, effort, and engagement gave meaning to this democratic moment.
I accept the result with respect. The people have spoken, and we honor the majority as per our democratic system. Democracy is not about winning alone; it is about conscience, courage, and collective responsibility.
While I formally concede the North and South America Chithue 2026 election, I do not concede the lifelong struggle for the just cause of Tibet. I extend my congratulations to the winners of the preliminary election and wish them wisdom and strength in their service to our people and our cause.
I am especially grateful to our elders, whose wisdom transcends elections. I recall an elderly Popo-la from San Francisco who supported me out of conviction, recognizing my lived experience of the Tibetan struggle both inside Tibet under Chinese rule and outside Tibet as part of the diaspora. Another elder described my journey as the rise of a lotus amidst mud, reminding me that perseverance and dignity can grow even in the most difficult circumstances. I will carry these blessings for the rest my life.
Throughout this journey, I made four commitments: to uphold the values of His Holiness the Dalai Lama; to strengthen unity; to remain accessible and accountable to our people; and to empower our youth with identity, leadership, and purpose.
These commitments do not end with elections. They are not bound by election results but rather lifelong commitments. I pledge to uphold them for the rest of my life, irrespective of any position I may or may not hold.
To all electors, I extend my respect. This moment calls us not to divide, but to move forward together.
This is not the end, nor is it a setback.
This is the beginning of a deeper commitment.
With gratitude, determination, and unwavering faith in our people, I remain committed to Tibet and the Tibetan people.
Tashi Lamsang
Feb 13, 2026