Saturday, April 23, 2016

Are we ready for Democracy?

                                            Are Tibetan Ready for Democracy?



The process of introducing democracy in exile has started over fifty years ago, but even today it has become necessary to ponder if the democratic system is appropriate for the exile Tibetan diaspora. Generally speaking, It is still doubtful that the general populace has fully grasped the eventual benefits of a such a political system.

Those who realize this new found democracy and freedom in a democratic and open society, start to explore avenues to express their freedom and rights. But for the most, it is still that the democracy is inseparable from their individual faith and belief. Those who have a full grasp on the functioning of democracy and their rights are always aware of the potential that a free and democratic society has in bringing disunity to the fragile Tibetan exile society.


 As a refugee society, we need to raise the question of what is more important, for the Tibetan society in exile. Is it the unity through which we struggle our freedom or within the framework of a democratic system, our effort takes its root? There is no easy answer to this questions nor a solution.
A nationality that enjoys freedom and democracy angst for free expression and opinion in a richly deserved democratic society. Allowing free expression and thoughts is a hallmark of a functioning democracy, and with that, it is fitting to label ourselves as living in an open free society.
Another outstanding issue is the tendency of exile's high profile politicians to raise strong objection to different views and opinions amongst the people in the Tibetan community. This intolerance of dissenting views is also considered by many as an obstacle to our unity. The expression of differing views and political ideology are, in reality, a product of a democratic society.
Generally speaking, whether there is an existence of democracy or not, but if you are to weigh on a host of issues and affairs, the dissenting views are bound to occur.  But if there is a democracy, indeed it creates an opportunity to seek the platform and vocalize their differences.
If it is the majority's consensus that the existence of different ideology and views threaten to derail the very fabric of Tibetan society's unity, and consequently the risk to undermine Tibetan people's struggle, then there is no reason not to roll constitutionally back on democracy.
It is on the lips of all Tibetan that while His Holiness the Dalai Lama still lives, we need to evaluate the system. If there is real need for change, it has to come up while His Holiness the Dalai Lama is still amidst us.
I believe the biggest force for unity among Tibetans in exile is nothing other than a democratic institution that His Holiness the Dalai Lama has magnanimously bestowed on the Tibetan people.  But given the current political spectrum of the exile society, where Tibetan men and even oracles are so agitated, that our initial hope and belief have become a thing of necessary to review and reconsider. With this, there will be no more of the tussle between the people and the aristocratic, no argument between the Rangzen Wala and middle Wala, and infight between the middle Walas. Such a shift of political power that allows only one direction for all to follow without leaving any room for different views. Thus, it warrants to roll back our current democratic system and likely gives a peace of mind for those leading personalities.
If our current system of democracy continues in the future, such different views and different political ideology including personal attack and criticism during our general election would be unavoidable.  
Tibetan political leader Sikyong and Minsters including those members of parliament should never presume that their post as a position of power and authority. Rather it should be viewed as a responsibility to campaign for the Tibetan struggle.   But sometimes, many behave and carry themselves like we have our independence. From such a complacency and misjudgment, there is a possibility of declining our movement and struggle which in turn could led to moral decay and corruption.
The Tibetan people's highest aspiration is to let loose from the clutch of Chinese oppression and gain complete independence. If that not happens, then at least for a  peaceful reunion of the Tibetans in exile and outside by restoring freedom in Tibet.
From a refugee perspective, our direction should be a goal -oriented rather relying on empty words. Therefore, it is the right time to reconsider whether democracy is the way for Tibetan in exile. 


(Note) This article is a translation of commentary from another news portal.

 

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