Dharamshala — Kelsang Dorjee Aukatsang announced on Wednesday his candidacy for the 2026 Sikyong election. He has made three core commitments if elected: first, Unity – strengthening cohesion across generations, regions and the global diaspora, and making the CTA a more engaged and trusted institution. Second, Rebalancing Towards Advocacy: refocusing the CTA on its core mission of advancing the cause of Tibet through stronger global engagement, increased investment in resources, and a "Look North" strategy. Thirdly, Self-Reliance & Financial Resilience - recovering lost resources, diversifying support, and building a stable financial foundation for our institutions and community.
Kelsang Dorjee Aukatsang, former representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in North America, announced on November 19, 2025, his candidacy for the 2026 Sikyong (President) election. He will run alongside the current Sikyong Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) in the 2026 Sikyong election. The primary elections for the Sikyong and members of the 18th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile will be held on February 1, 2026, and the final election will be held on April 26, 2025.
Kelsang Dorjee (Kaydor) Aukatsang stated when announcing his candidacy on social media: "With humility and a deep sense of duty, l announce my candidacy for Sikyong in the 2026 elections."
"Our community stands at a pivotal moment. China has closed all channels of dialogue and intensified its repressive policies inside Tibet, while our exile institutions face demographic pressures, reduced resources, and growing polarization. These challenges demand steady leadership, renewed unity, and a clear strategic direction," Kaydor said.
Kaydor said," During the 2021 elections, I visited nearly thirty Tibetan communities across India, Europe, and North America. I witnessed firsthand the resilience, hopes, and concerns of our people-whose achievements under the leadership of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama remain unmatched among refugee communities anywhere in the world."
"I had not planned to run again. I hoped this election would bring forward new leaders, especially women. But as credible alternatives failed to emerge, many of you urged me to step forward. After thoughtful reflection and discussion with my family, I have decided to do so. Our democracy deserves meaningful choice, and our community deserves a clear path forward," he added.
He has made three core commitments if elected: first, Unity – strengthening cohesion across generations, regions and the global diaspora, and making the CTA a more engaged and trusted institution. Second, Rebalancing Towards Advocacy: refocusing the CTA on its core mission of advancing the cause of Tibet through stronger global engagement, increased investment in resources, and a "Look North" strategy. Thirdly, Self-Reliance & Financial Resilience - recovering lost resources, diversifying support, and building a stable financial foundation for our institutions and community.
