Election Commission announces candidates for Domey election; Lukar Jam questions its legitimacy
DHARAMSALA, April 22: The Tibetan Election Commission on April 21 announced the candidates for the final round of the by-election for a Member of Parliament from Domey constituency.
The short-listed candidates are Tashi Dhondup, a native of Golog Serta, currently residing in Nepal; Tsayang Gyatso of Golog, currently residing in Dharamshala; and Karma Gelek of Jhakyung, currently residing in Bandara Tibetan settlement.
Atsok Lukar Jam, former Vice-President of Gu-Chu-Sum movement of Tibet, who secured second highest number of votes during the preliminary by-election held on February 17 withdrew his nomination from the final by-election questioning its legitimacy.
“I had submitted a six-point letter to the Election Commission seeking their explanation on the issue but they did not respond to my letter. Since I’ve called this election unlawful and questioned its legitimacy from the start, I don’t find it right to participate in the election. It is not about winning or losing. I informed the Election Commission on April 15 that I would like to withdraw my candidature and they accepted,” Lukar told reporters about his withdrawal from the election.
The controversy between the two parties pertains to the amendment and implementation of a law passed earlier by the 15th Tibetan Parliament that nullifies the 33% vote requirement set for Tibetan MPs.
The final round of the election will be held on June 9 and the results will be declared on June 20.
The by-election was triggered by the resignation of Domey MP, Kirti Dolkar Lhamo.
