Dharamshala April 7 – In an unexpected turn of events in the largest non governmental organisation of the exile Tibetan community, Kalsang Phuntsok Godrukpa, who earlier on 26 January resigned from the presidentship of the organisation, has returned to reclaim his office after more than a month. Sources say that Kalsang had started attending office from 14 March and performed his usual official duties including signing of cheques.
Citing reasons of lack of cooperation and support from his executive members Phuntsok announced his resignation in January this year.
At a meeting of the executive members and some senior former executive members after Kalsang’s resignation Lobsang Yeshi was made the acting president till the next general body meeting as per the rules and regulations of the Tibetan Youth Congress, sources told phayul.
The TYC rules and regulation has it that within a month’s time from the date of resignation the handing over process must be completed. Kalsang has not handed over his office after his resignation on 26 January 2006.
An emergency meeting has been called in Delhi where various regional chapters of the Tibetan youth congress are expected to meet from 8 April to 9 April.
Meanwhile, three former executive members have expressed disappointment over the event and issued a joint statement which came in strong opposition to Kalsang’s step.
The statement which was issued by former Kalon Tripa Sonam Topgyal, Jamyang Norbu and Lhasang Tsering said, “As past members of the Tibetan Youth Congress’ Central Executive we are disturbed to learn that Kalsang Phunstok, who resigned from the Presidency recently, may be attempting to retake his post. We are saddened by this turn of events and feel we have no choice now but to speak out because these actions are undermining the democratic foundation of TYC.”
The statement also said that if Kalsang aspires to be president of TYC again he should seek this office through open election at the next general body meeting.
“No leader is indispensable in the Tibetan Youth Congress. New leaders will come”, the statement said.
Meanwhile, sources say that the TYC has received letters of appeal from some regional chapters urging Kalsang Phuntsok to resume presidentship. The developments at the two-day meeting will decide the fate of the largest non-governmental organisation of the exile Tibetan community.
