Dalai Lama Defies China with Successor Plan Ahead of 90th Birthday Celebrations

Just days before his 90th birthday, the Dalai Lama has unveiled his plans for the future of the institution of the Dalai Lama, explicitly stating that China will have no say in the selection of his successor. This significant announcement, made via a pre-recorded video aired at a religious conference in Dharamshala, India, reaffirms the spiritual leader’s autonomy and directly challenges Beijing’s long-standing claims.

The Dalai Lama, who appeared frail but resolute, stated that The Gaden Phodrang Trust, a religious body of Buddhist monks within his office, will conduct the search for his reincarnation. He emphasized, “no one else has any such authority to interfere in the matter,” a clear rebuttal to China’s assertion of sole authority in appointing the next leader of Tibetan Buddhism. This move intensifies the ongoing dispute over religious freedom and political control in Tibet, which China considers an autonomous region.

The timing of this declaration is particularly poignant, coinciding with widespread celebrations planned for his 90th birthday this week in Dharamshala, where tens of thousands of followers, prominent politicians, and devotees like actor Richard Gere are expected to gather. The Dalai Lama has previously indicated that his successor would be born “in the free world” and outside of China, further complicating Beijing’s efforts to control the succession process, which they codified in a 2007 law requiring government approval for reincarnated lamas.

The announcement comes at a delicate time for the Tibetan community in exile, facing challenges including funding cuts and a lack of formal talks with China since 2010. Despite potential for rival claimants, as seen with the Panchen Lama, exiled Tibetans express strong faith that the reincarnation chosen according to the current Dalai Lama’s instructions will be recognized by most.

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