Dharamshala: On 22 August 2026, at the invitation of the Tibetan Community of Western Australia, Kalsang Tsering, a Member of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile representing Australasia and Asia (excluding India, Nepal, and Bhutan), attended a memorial gathering commemorating the 49th day since the passing of patriotic martyr Lobga Rangzen, who died after self-immolating in front of the United Nations Headquarters in New York, USA, on 2 July.

Upon arrival at Perth Airport, Parliamentarian Kalsang Tsering was warmly welcomed by Sonam Lhamo (Doljang), President of the Tibetan Community of Western Australia, and Tenpa Dargye, Secretary of the association.

The official ceremony commenced at 5:00 PM. The chief guest was Senator Dean Smith, a supporter of the Tibetan cause and a member of the Australian Senate. The special guest was Representative Karma Singye of the Tibet Information Office. The gathering was also attended by Friends of Tibet, supporters of the Tibetan cause, and members of the regional Tibetan community.

In his address, Parliamentarian Kalsang Tsering paid tribute to the sacrifice of patriotic hero Lobga Rangzen. Referring to Lobga Rangzen’s final testament, he emphasized the responsibility of all Tibetans to remain united and actively contribute to the struggle for Tibetan freedom. Speeches were also delivered by chief guest Senator Dean Smith, other supporters of the Tibetan cause, and Representative Karma Singye. Members of the Tibetan association recited poetry in honour of Lobga Rangzen and his sacrifice.

During the gathering, Tenpa Dargye, Secretary of the association, launched a website featuring photographs and information about individuals who have self-immolated both inside and outside Tibet in connection with the cause of Tibetan religion, politics, and nationality.

On the following day, 23 August, the Tibetan Community of Western Australia celebrated the 66th Tibetan Democracy Day ahead of schedule, in the presence of both the Tibetan Parliamentarian and the Representative from the Office of Tibet.

The program began with a welcome address by the President of the Tibetan Association, followed by a brief presentation of the community’s financial accounts by the Secretary. Young members of the community also performed the traditional Ling Kordo dance. Community members shared updates on local issues and raised questions with the Parliamentarian and the Representative from the Office of Tibet, who responded accordingly.

Parliamentarian Kalsang Tsering delivered an address providing a brief overview of the evolution of Tibetan democracy. He emphasized the importance of supporting and strengthening the Central Tibetan Administration, preserving and strengthening local Tibetan community organizations regardless of their size, and prioritizing the teaching of the Tibetan language to children attending weekend schools through the joint efforts of parents and teachers.

Representative Karma Singye also delivered an address on the significance of Tibetan Democracy Day. In addition, recommendations were shared regarding amendments to and the finalization of the Regulations of the Tibetan Community of Western Australia.